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

001 Protegex Cover 01
001 Protegex Cover 01

TriStar Arms Protégé X: A Pocket-Size Punch

Inspired by successful designs of the past, the TriStar Arms Protégé X is a pocket-size, M1911-style handgun chambered for the popular 9 mm cartridge.

Hornady Family Honored with Legacy Award

In October, the Hornady family was recognized by the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation for its contribution to the city that Hornady calls home.

I Have This Old Gun: Model 1860 Spencer Carbine

One of the most revolutionary shoulder arms of the American Civil War, the Model 1860 Spencer carbine went from being an experimental design at the war's beginning to ultimately becoming the official issue arm of the U.S. Cavalry by war's end.

New For 2025: Tippmann Arms Integrally Suppressed M4-22s

In anticipation of the upcoming $0 NFA tax stamp enactment, Tippmann Arms is now offering integrally suppressed versions of its M4-22 design.

Favorite Firearms: A Winchester Model 54 Turns 100

Serving during World War I in 1918, my father completed two years in the Engineer Corps. In addition to his engineering duties, he and all the other soldiers had to carry and qualify with the Model 1903 Springfield rifle, since they were often on the front lines.

Winchester Ammunition Opens New Office In Missouri

Winchester Ammunition opened a new office in Clayton, Mo., which will accommodate much of the company's full-time administrative staff and is located several hours away from the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.