Lansing, IL – Police in Lansing are warning residents this week about the growing use of replica guns by teenagers, raising concerns about public safety as warmer weather draws more people outdoors.
According to the Lansing Police Department, the warning was issued Thursday as officers reported responding to multiple recent calls involving youths allegedly carrying Orbeez, Orby, and gel blaster-style guns in public areas. Authorities said these replica weapons closely resemble real firearms and have allegedly caused panic among residents who could not distinguish them from actual guns.
Police said some of the incidents involved teenagers allegedly participating in a social media-driven “assassination game,” where individuals reportedly jump out at others in public spaces and at traffic intersections. Officers said the activity has allegedly led to heightened fear in the community and prompted emergency responses.
The department also reported incidents allegedly involving aggravated vehicular hijacking and shots fired calls tied to these replica weapons, though officials emphasized that the guns are not lethal firearms. Still, their realistic appearance has repeatedly created confusion for both the public and responding officers.
Images shared by police show several confiscated items that were allegedly recovered during recent service calls. Some of the replica guns had reportedly been modified or painted to resemble real weapons more closely.
Authorities are urging parents to monitor what their children are carrying and using outdoors. Officials stressed that while the devices may be marketed as toys, their misuse in public spaces can lead to serious consequences and potentially dangerous misunderstandings.
Police said community awareness and cooperation are key to preventing further incidents as outdoor activity increases this spring.
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