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February 28, 2024
Teenagers Charged in Toms River School Incident
Authorities reported that several pupils were hurt on Monday afternoon as they were shot with Orbeez gel water beads while exercising outside during their gym class at Toms River Intermediate School South.
According to
Beachwood Police, four adolescents have been charged with fourth-degree possession of a weapon for criminal purposes and harassment in relation to the event.
Toms River Regional Superintendent Michael Citta stated that a group of teens drove past the school on Monday afternoon at approximately 2:40 p.m. and fired shots at the students using an Orbeez pistol, which shoots the Orbeez gel water beads. The pupils were among the 26 students outside for gym class.
Citta stated that the pupils were taken inside right away, and the school nurse examined the injured youngsters. Citta stated that one student had a mark on their arm from being struck by the beads.
According to DeMarco, when police arrived and started looking for the car and the people involved, they discovered the four teenagers—all of whom were minors—at a Beachwood location. According to him, the car engaged in the incident had three Orbeez weapons found and taken into custody.
Also according to DeMarco, authorities learned of another incident in which Orbeez was shot by the same group of young people at a house on Mizzen Avenue. He noted that although the victim claimed to have been struck in the leg, no major injuries were sustained.
The criminal complaints were approved by the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office.
"School staff is diligently working with the children who have been directly involved in this unfortunate incident," he stated.
Citta stated that the high school pupils involved are teenagers, and the district will implement punitive measures.
DeMarco said Beachwood police are asking residents who may have additional information or video footage that may help with the investigation to call Detective David Bowden at 732-286-6000, ext. 100.
Back in 2022, according to 6abc Philadelphia, there has been a viral TikTok trend which was causing panic in some communities and resulting in several teens facing charges in many states.
The "Orbeez Challenge" is encouraging TikTok users to buy Orbeez soft gel or water balls, load them in airsoft guns, and fire them at innocent victims.
It has been occurring in the US for some time.
