Viral TikTok Challenge Involving Gel Ball Guns: Alameda PD Warning

ALAMEDA, CA — The Alameda Police Department is appealing to parents to put a stop to their kids participating in the TikTok Challenge Involving Gel Ball Guns.

The challenge involves shooting strangers with the gel balls, which can be terrifying for the victims who are suddenly hit with projectiles.

Alameda Police say that since late July there have been multiple shootings. "These incidents seem to be occurring between the afternoon and early evening hours," police said on social media. "While these bystanders were not seriously injured, other law enforcement agencies have reported pellets striking victims in the eyes and causing other injuries."

"Cities across the country have seen a rise in attacks involving toy guns, likely due to the growing momentum behind a social media trend encouraging people to shoot at strangers. In some cases, the toys are being altered to look real."

Related: Gel Pellet Gun Suspected In Berkeley Aggravated Assault

If teens are shooting guns that look real, their own safety could be compromised in addition to the innocent people that they are shooting.

"We are asking parents to have thoughtful conversations with their children."