Sounds like they were Airsoft guns to me. They look pretty realistic, even with the obligatory orange muzzle tips.
It's obvious the parent hasn't taught these idjits a thing about real firearm safety.
That was my first thought, too, Slim.
As kids, our toy cap guns and six shooters always stayed home.
I honestly can't remember my parents allowing such toys to be taken anywhere in a vehicle once they were unwrapped!