TikTok Challenge Causing Injuries In This NJ Town, Authorities Warn

MERCER COUNTY, NJ — Police in Hamilton are investigating numerous incidents of people being struck and injured by a gel pellet gun.

The incidents stem from the alarming new TikTok trend, the “Orbeez Challenge,” or “splat balls guns” police said. In this trend, people passing in vehicles are shooting water beads at others with a pellet-type gun or an airsoft gun. Orbeez is the name of the brand that makes the pellets.

The gel water beads are intended to break on impact but can cause serious injuries if not used as intended, police said.

Police have warned the public against participating in this challenge. Those caught participating in this challenge will face criminal charges and or/motor vehicle charges, Hamilton Police said.

“Discharging from and towards a motor vehicle while in transit, and/or freezing gel pellets to damage property or injure someone could result in criminal charges,” police said.

Across the country, law enforcement officials are issuing warnings against not accepting the "Orbeez Challenge."

In Westfield, a woman reported to police that she was shot with plastic pellets last week. In Sarasota, FL, police were on high alert after an unsubstantiated threat of an "Orbeez Challenge" shooting planned at a county fair.

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