The stupid “splatter gun” craze has come to Richmond Hill, according to Bryan County Sheriff’s Office reports.

A deputy was sent to the Rec Park on Timber Trail in Richmond Hill around 6:30 p.m. March 12 regarding “a group of juveniles pointing a ‘bb’ gun at a female’s head, trying to take her food.”

The complainant wasn’t there and didn’t want to talk to a deputy.

Around 7:30 p.m., a second call reported the same three juveniles “had shot the caller (who was anonymous) and one suspect had a real firearm.”

The deputy found two of the juveniles at the bathroom, “as described by the caller,” and one was carrying a “red, white and black sub-compact style ‘splatter gun,’” which is a gun that shoots water or gel balls.

Both teens were searched and obeyed deputies commands, and released to the custody of either a parent or family member. Neither complainant wanted to press charges, the report said, but an RHPD officer reportedly recognized one of the kids “as having been involved in an incident involving the ‘splatter’ guns and BB guns.’” 

“The group of suspects allegedly refers to themselves as the ‘Walk around’ gang. One of the supposed firearms involved was black with red firearm tied to it.”

In a related report, deputies reported March 13 someone found a gun behind a concession stand at the Bryan County Rec Department and it turned out to be an airsoft pistol. The report also noted:

 “Over the last few days there have been several complainants around both the city of Richmond Hill and Bryan County in regards to juveniles driving around shooting people with what is being called ‘splat pellets,’ which is mini paint balls.’” The airsoft pistol was taken to be placed in an evidence locker at BCSO.

There’ve been news reports around Georgia and elsewhere of teens shooting unsuspecting people with the guns, which can be bought at many big box retailers like Walmart and look real.

 As to why it’s a dumb craze, here’s why. These days, someone armed with a real gun might shoot back.