Fear & Loading: Costumed Trickster Treated To Jail

by
posted on October 31, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
cemetery.jpg

Zippy the Clown pedaled his bicycle up to a home in Lac Cruces, N.M., got off, produced a gun and demanded money from a resident on Oct. 27. He’d driven to the area of the crime scene in a pickup truck, but knowing his fake wig and beard might arouse the suspicion of commuters, mounted a two-wheeler for the heist.

The victim wisely emptied his pockets of cash and was promptly zip tied. The culprit apparently carried a generous supply of the nylon restraining devices carried by our military forces in the Global War on Terror, because he used more on a homeowner’s grandson during the incident—hence the moniker, which hasn’t been officially endorsed or confirmed by New Mexico authorities.

When police were summoned, a pair of officers gave chase on foot. It didn’t last long though, because in a scene straight out of a keystone cops routine, “Another responding deputy was coming around the corner in a marked unit and reportedly hit Chavez [aka, Zippy] with his unit.” No word on damage to the vehicle.  

Zippy polished his routine’s timing in the big house, where he recently served a 30-year sentence for second degree murder and—as rumor has hit—was always first in line for Thursday night’s meatloaf surprise. At press time there was no response from Dona Ana Sheriff’s Department as to whether he was carrying a trick or treat bag. There’s also no confirmation that the bicycle had training wheels, although the culprit’s obvious lack of balance makes it likely.

Happy Halloween, and be careful out there. You never can be too careful when there’s a knock at the door, especially when the unexpected guest is behind a mask, riding a bike, wearing a wig, sporting a fake beard and carries a distinct odor of meatloaf.

Latest

Sub Calibers Self Defense 1
Sub Calibers Self Defense 1

Small Calibers for Self-Defense: Addressing Common Myths & Criticisms

For decades, small cartridges like the .22 Long Rifle were derided as incapable rounds for defensive use and were even considered dangerous for the user by some. Today, those critiques deserve a second look.

New for 2026: HUXWRX Flow 9k PCC & Flow 9 M Suppressors

Continuing the legacy it first established as Operator Suppressor Systems, HUXWRX is still introducing new and mission-specific flow-through suppressors, with its latest products being the FLOW 9 M and FLOW 9k PCC.

Armed Citizen Stops Oregon Attack; NRA Reaffirms Importance of Law-Abiding Armed Citizenry

The National Rifle Association of America today issued a statement regarding yesterday’s act of violence in Oregon.

Gun of the Week: Tokarev TT-12 Pro

While there are several AR-style, semi-automatic shotguns on the market, the Tokarev TT-12 Pro has a few features you won’t find elsewhere. And it’s affordable, to boot.

Beretta Holding Announces Preliminary Results of Cash Tender Offer for Shares of Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.

Beretta Holding announced today the preliminary results of its cash tender offer to purchase up to 2,400,184 of the outstanding shares of Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. common stock.

Ankle Holsters: Are They Still a Good Option for Concealed Carry?

The use of ankle holsters is an old-school, deep-concealment method that was popular in the age of the snub-nose revolver. In today’s world of micro-compacts, does it still hold up as a good carry position?

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.