Strathcona and Red Deer RCMP are reminding high school students and their parents about the dangers of playing with realistic-looking toy weapons in public, following an incident involving the traditional 'Senior Splashin' game.
Incident Prompts Warning
On April 30, Strathcona RCMP responded to a report of three youths carrying what appeared to be firearms inside a Sherwood Park business in the Emerald Hills neighbourhood. The youths were later seen driving around and pointing the objects out of a car window. Police located the vehicle and determined the items were water guns designed to look like real firearms, used in a high school game known as 'Senior Splashin' or 'Senior Assassin.'
"This is not the first year that this has been a trend that we're seeing," said Cst. Cheri-Lee Smith, public information officer with Strathcona RCMP. "Often it is youths who are in their senior year, but it's not uncommon that other youth might participate."
Police and School Board Response
Red Deer RCMP issued a release warning that replica firearms, including airsoft, pellet, BB, or toy guns resembling real firearms, can cause public disturbance and lead to criminal charges. "Parents play an important role in education and prevention. Toy and replica firearms that are indistinguishable from real firearms can create heightened fear," the release stated. "When replica firearms are present, the individuals in possession, members of the public and responding officers are placed at significant risk."
At least one Edmonton school sent a letter to parents about the game, urging students not to use realistic-looking toy weapons. The Edmonton Public School Board confirmed no incidents related to 'Senior Splashin' occurred in 2026 but provided schools with a template letter to address the issue.
Safety Recommendations
Cst. Smith encourages parents to discuss safe and respectful play in public spaces with their children, especially regarding toys that resemble real firearms. Using such toys can raise public concern and trigger unnecessary emergency responses. "Let's work together to ensure everyone remains safe, respectful and enjoyable in our community," she said.
