HENRY COUNTY, Va. (Romero Report) — Henry County Sheriff Wayne Davis said his department has received multiple complaints regarding the use of Orbeez gel blasters, linked to a dangerous social media trend known as the “Orbeez Challenge.”

The challenge involves shooting strangers with Orbeez gel blasters, which are air-powered devices that fire gel projectiles or small, water-absorbing beads.

These beads can sting and cause serious injury when fired, Sheriff Davis said.

Many of the blasters look like real guns and there is a severe danger that law enforcement officers or citizens could mistake them for one, especially in public areas such as businesses or schools, according to Davis.

“We are concerned that people may retaliate or protect themselves, not knowing if there is a danger to themselves or others,” Sheriff Davis explained. “These gel blasters were designed to be fun for kids when used appropriately, such as in your backyard with willing participants. It can become a criminal act punishable by law to shoot unwilling participants.”

The Sheriff emphasized that his department will work to identify and arrest anyone who uses the gel blasters to assault people, cause fear, or panic in the community.

Parents are encouraged to discuss the dangers of this type of activity with their children.

For additional information or to report incidents involving Orbeez gel blasters, contact the Henry County Sheriff’s Office at 276-638-8751.

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