Water pistols aren’t deadly weapons — unless they are mistaken for the real thing.
That was the caution issued Tuesday by Morristown Police Chief Darnell Richardson, who attempted to avert any “escalated resident responses” to a game called “water gun assassination.”
It’s an unsanctioned end-of-the-school-year ritual among Morristown High seniors, who use water pistols to surprise each other “anywhere in town, including residential areas, and at any time of the day,” the chief said in a statement released by Capt. Keith Cregan.
Officers responded to a report of a person with a firearm at 2:30 pm on Monday, and determined the individual was a high school senior playing the game. Police did not disclose the location.
“While we don’t endorse or condone this activity, our goal is to inform the public about this game to prevent any potential misunderstandings or escalated citizens responses, especially those who maybe approved for a concealed carry permit,” Richardson said.
“We must advise that the safest choice to avoid unintended consequences is to not participate. However, we also encourage parents to educate their children about safety measures if they do choose to participate, including avoiding the use of anything that could be mistaken for a firearm,” he said.
Richardson added: “If there are any doubts, please do not hesitate to contact the police immediately.”
