Germantown, Wisconsin police are warning residents and parents about the dangers of a popular senior prank after officers drew their weapons on four teenagers playing with toy Nerf guns.
On Thursday, April 16, 2026, at approximately 9:30 p.m., Germantown Police responded to a call of people with rifles outside an apartment complex near Pilgrim Road and Sylvan Avenue. Officers arrived to find four teens dressed in dark clothing, one wearing a ski mask, carrying what appeared to be AR-style rifles. Body camera video shows officers approaching with guns drawn and ordering the teens to drop the weapons.
Once officers illuminated the suspects with flashlights, they realized the “guns” were actually Nerf toys. No one was injured in the encounter. The teens were participating in an annual game known as “Nerf Gun Wars” or “Paranoia,” a tradition among high school seniors where participants try to “eliminate” each other with water or foam dart guns.
Germantown Police Chief Patrick Merten emphasized that officers must treat every gun call as a real threat until proven otherwise. The department noted they respond to similar calls every year during this senior game.
The Germantown School District also sent a letter to senior families strongly discouraging participation in the game off campus due to safety risks.
Police are urging parents to talk with their children about the game and to play in controlled, well-lit environments if they choose to participate. They warn that the activity can look extremely suspicious, especially at night.
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Once officers illuminated the suspects with flashlights, they realized the “guns” were actually Nerf toys.
Once officers illuminated the suspects with flashlights, they realized the “guns” were actually Nerf toys.
