A Miami-Dade police officer drew his gun on a MAST Academy senior with a toy water pistol after an anonymous citizen reported a “suspicious man with a firearm hiding in the bushes” at the Biscayne Dog Friendly Beach across from MAST Academy on Wednesday.
It was revealed that the student was participating in a game called “Senior Assassins,” which is student-led and unaffiliated with MAST Academy. The student’s claim was affirmed by the operator of the game.
The student had what appeared to be a white and blue Glock semi-automatic weapon in his right hand at first glance. MDPD officer David Carrero Jr. drew his weapon and ordered the student to get to the ground, and the student complied.
According to a respondent from MDPD, the student was returned to MAST Academy by principal Dr. Collman-Perez and assistant principal Mr. Semararo.
“The administration met with the affected students and contacted their parents. The affected students clearly understood the unfortunate ending that could have resulted from them engaging in a ‘game’ with water guns. This game is not endorsed or authorized by MAST Academy,” Collman-Perez told The Beacon.
“Senior Assassins” is a non-violent game played county-wide, wherein high school students compete in water gun fights for a cash prize. As a result of this incident, the game may no longer be played near campus. This includes the beach parking lot across from the campus.
