Elmhurst Splatter Ball Shootings An Issue: Cops

ELMHURST, IL – Elmhurst police are warning of a "dangerous" trend involving splatter ball guns.

The guns have been used across the country, as part of the "Orbeez Challenge" on TikTok.

In March, Elmhurst police investigated two cases involving the phenomenon. The trend encourages teens to drive around and shoot splatter ball pellets at bystanders, police said.

Splatter balls are water-filled pellets that are similar to the airsoft variety and can cause welts to exposed skin, police said.

In the early evening of March 6, five teens shot splatter balls at an adult and children in three places, according to a police report. They were arrested, their car was impounded, and they were charged with aggravated battery in juvenile court, police said.

About 8 p.m. March 27, four youths struck a woman with a splatter ball gun at Berens Park, police said. Charges are pending.

Splatter ball guns are sold as toys, but can cause injury and should only be used under parental supervision, police said.

Parents are asked to talk to their children about the trend and warn them of potential injuries to victims and legal consequences.

On March 15, Patch filed a public records request for the first case involving a splatter ball gun. The city has not provided a response.

Anyone with information about the recent incidents is asked to call Elmhurst police at 630-530-3050.