Police Warn Teens To Stop 'Assassins' Game

Fremont police issued a public warning to teens playing the "Assassins" game after multiple safety incidents in the area. Officers say the game has triggered armed responses and traffic hazards despite using only fake weapons. (patch.com) Players divide into teams and "assassinate" each other using water guns, paintball markers, or Nerf blasters that mimic real firearms. The object is to eliminate opponents by surprise attack while blending into public spaces. (wikipedia.org)) The game starts with players drawing targets from a hat, then tracking them in daily routines like school or shopping trips. It lasts days or weeks until one side remains, often with rules like "no assassinations during class." (urbandictionary.com) Fremont police reported teens jumping fences into backyards and startling residents, prompting 911 calls mistaken for real threats. One patrol response escalated when officers arrived guns drawn, unsure if weapons were real. (patch.com) Traffic stops turned risky too—police pulled over vehicles matching game descriptions, only to find kids with replica guns inside. The department logged several such calls recently, heightening officer caution after nationwide active shooter fears. (insideinvestigator.org) Game mirrors "manhunt" variants played since the 1980s, but social media spread it widely, with TikTok videos showing urban chases and fake hits. Local versions ban Nerf guns indoors but allow modified squirt pistols outdoors. (wikipedia.org)) Police now warn that players risk arrest for disturbing the peace or causing false alarms, urging immediate cessation. They ask parents and Mission Valley school staff to monitor and intervene before situations worsen. (missionlocal.org) Captain Marty Goel advised, "We take every report of a person with a gun seriously," highlighting the fine line between fun and public panic. No charges have been filed yet, but police say continued play could change that. (patch.com)