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The Sudbury Police Department was called in to investigate an incident involving an airsoft pistol at the Ephraim Curtis Middle School on Wednesday. According to an email from school principal Jeff Mela:
We write to inform you about an incident that happened late yesterday afternoon on the playground, where an individual displayed an airsoft pistol. A family reported this information to us this morning, and in accordance with our safety practices, we immediately involved the Sudbury Police Department during the investigation and follow-up. Although concerning, we have determined this was not a credible threat.
Jeff Mela – Principal, Ephraim Curtis Middle School
According to Wikipedia, airsoft is “a team-based shooting game in which participants eliminate opposing players out of play by shooting them with spherical plastic projectiles shot from airsoft guns.” The game originated in Japan, and has grown in popularity in the United States. The small plastic pellets can leave small bruises or welts, but don’t typically cause significant injury.
One of the primary safety concerns is eye injuries, which can be much more significant than a welt on skin. And while the small pellets may not generally cause major injury, the guns themselves are often described as “look-alikes” for real guns. That can cause alarm, particularly in a school setting, and it has also created dangerous situations for police throughout the country.
No other details were shared in the message, which concluded: “The safety and well-being of our students and staff are our highest priorities. We appreciate your partnership and please continue to let us know about anything that could potentially be unsafe.”