Batavia Police Warn Against Dangers Of Senior Assassin Game

BATAVIA, IL — As the school year approaches its end, Batavia police are warning the community of the dangers of the "Senior Assassin" game, an annual tradition among high schoolers.

The game typically involves students being assigned to another student to attempt to eliminate them using water guns, all while avoiding being tagged themselves. Players often wear ski masks or dark clothing, and they may hide around homes or in public areas, often in the morning before school or during the afternoon and evening.

The game is not allowed during school hours or on school property. According to Batavia police's alert on Facebook Tuesday morning, Senior Assassin has begun.

Police said the department receives multiple calls from concerned residents who see players dressed suspiciously or carrying items that resemble real weapons.

"These calls must be treated as potential criminal incidents, as responding officers cannot know whether a weapon is real," officials said. "Such situations create risks for officers, participants, and the community. In rare cases, actions taken during the game may even result in criminal charges."

As students' and the community's safety are top priorities for police, the department encouraged parents to discuss with their children what to do if they encounter the police.

"It is essential that they follow officers' instructions immediately and precisely," officials said. "They should never run from law enforcement."