WINNIPEG – PUBLIC SAFETY UPDATE – The Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) is issuing a public awareness alert regarding the reemergence of a social media-driven game known as “Senior Assassin”, which has gained traction among graduating high school students in the city and beyond.
Live-Action Water Gun Game Sparks Safety Concerns Across the City
“Senior Assassin” is a live-action elimination game that sees Grade 12 students attempt to “take out” one another using water pistols or similar toy weapons. The goal is to be the last remaining “assassin” by eliminating opponents, typically with a squirt of water. While the game is meant to be harmless fun among peers, its increasing presence in public spaces—from parks and sidewalks to driveways and store parking lots—has led to confusion and safety concerns.
Participants often wear dark clothing and may hide or ambush others at unexpected times of day, including early mornings or late nights. With no school affiliation and little visibility into the game’s organization, many community members unfamiliar with the trend mistake these interactions for real-life threats, prompting emergency 9-1-1 calls.
Game Played in Public Spaces Can Lead to Mistaken Emergency Calls
Police stress that any report involving what appears to be a firearm, even toy water guns, triggers a heightened tactical response—sometimes involving multiple officers, units, or even the Tactical Support Team. The WPS emphasizes that while water pistols may be harmless, calls about “gun sightings” are never taken lightly.
Each incident diverts officers and resources from actual emergencies and may also escalate tensions unnecessarily in otherwise safe neighborhoods.
Police Urge Parents to Talk to Teens About Risks and Community Impact
The WPS is asking parents and guardians to speak with teens about the risks and implications of participating in the game. What may be a harmless competition among friends can quickly evolve into a dangerous misunderstanding when played in public or private spaces without context.
While schools themselves are not officially connected to the game, it is widely promoted via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok, often with digital “kill boards” and live updates fueling competition.
“We understand it’s meant to be fun,” said a WPS spokesperson. “But we’re asking families to help keep our communities safe by understanding how this may appear to the public—and how it impacts real emergency response.”
COMMUNITY REMINDER:
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Avoid public participation in games involving replica or toy firearms.
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Educate teens about how their actions may be perceived by others.
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Call 9-1-1 only when a genuine threat exists, but never hesitate if you’re unsure.
This trend may likely show up in Northwestern Ontario and other cities across Canada, and may resurface locally each spring as graduation season approaches. Community awareness is key to ensuring a fun but safe end to the school year for all involved.
