Someone opens their car door- and freezes. A figure steps out from behind the car, water gun in hand. There’s yelling, scrambling- keys drop, eyes dart- maybe even a floatie on their arm. Within seconds, it’s over. Another senior is out. This is Senior Assassin.
Each spring, seniors participate in the unofficial game where students receive assigned targets and attempt to “eliminate” them using water guns. Once you’re out, you’re out- and the game keeps moving. No second chances. No losers’ bracket. You’re done. An Instagram account, run by juniors, tracks eliminations, posts videos, and updates
the ever-shrinking list of players.
But unlike other games you can box up and return to the shelf, the game doesn’t stay contained to just a few moments. It follows students everywhere.
“It’s one of the most exciting parts of senior year and such a fun way to make memories with everyone before we graduate,” senior Nicole Ibrahim said. “I even go for runs with my goggles on.”
Weekends, jobs, parking lots, and even quick stops at home- nothing feels safe anymore. Some seniors change their schedules or avoid certain locations altogether to avoid predictability. Even students not participating keep up
with posts and videos.
The Instagram account has become the center of it all. From elimination clips to last-minute rules to dramatic “purges,” the account fuels both the competition and the entertainment.
Behind the scenes, though, rules can get complicated. Players submit videos as proof, and not every elimination is unquestioned. Disputes over whether something “counts” aren’t uncommon, especially when the stakes get higher.
For some seniors, the game ended quickly- and often in embarrassing fashion.
“Getting eliminated a week into the game was absolutely devastating, and I will never forgive Carlos. Trust no one and sleep with one eye open,” eliminated senior Lila Bridgman said.
Other seniors are still in, trying to navigate their typical days, but with paranoia and strategy. Alliances form, routines shift, and close calls become stories that spread fast.
“I check everything before I get out of the car or leave the house,” senior Brayden Oswald said.
At its core, Senior Assassin is more than just a game- it’s a shared experience. It turns everyday moments into something unpredictable and adds a sense of excitement (and anxiety) to the final weeks of senior year.
And as long as the game continues, one thing is certain: No one really is safe.
Follow The ELHS Senior Assassin Instagram!
Where the Line Is Drawn: Senior Assassin and School Rules
As the game spreads, head principal Henry Kydd weighs in on safety, boundaries, and what students need to know via email interview
Viking Saga: How would you describe the school’s general stance on Senior Assassin?
Henry Kydd: Senior Assassin takes place outside of school and is not sanctioned or condoned by ELHS, but our primary concern is student safety. We’ve communicated clearly with families about the potential risks (April 20), especially when the game is played in public spaces or with items that could be mistaken for real weapons.
VS: What are the biggest safety concerns the school has about Senior Assassin?
HK: The biggest concern is misinterpretation—particularly when water guns are modified or used in a way that could be perceived as real weapons. That can create unnecessary panic or even lead to law enforcement involvement. Several news reports have highlighted instances in which law enforcement had to intervene when students played in public spaces, raising concerns about misinterpretation and potential danger. Although ELHS administration cannot control students’ actions off school grounds, we want to be clear that this game will not be tolerated on East Lyme High School premises.
VS: What advice would you give to seniors who are currently participating?
HK: Be smart, be safe, and use good judgment. Have fun, but don’t put yourself or others in a situation where your actions could be misunderstood or put yourself in harm’s way.
