Richard Ramirez: The Capture of the Night Stalker

The Capture of the Night Stalker — August 31, 1985, East Los Angeles. A four-panel comic centering the residents who pursued and subdued Richard Ramirez.

1. Panel1 — A face in the news

   SceneIn an East Los Angeles neighborhood store, a shopper reads the Spanish-language newspaper La Heraldo beneath television coverage showing a police image of Ramirez.

   Text

   After months of terror, the face of suspected killer Richard Ramirez was suddenly everywhere in Los Angeles.

   Night Stalker suspect sought by police.

   Invasor Nocturno. ¿Lo has visto?

2. Panel2 — Recognized

   SceneWomen in the store point toward Ramirez while one holds a newspaper bearing his portrait.

   Text

   When Ramirez entered a neighborhood store, local residents recognized him instantly.

   ¡Ese es él! ¡El Invasor Nocturno!

3. Panel3 — The chase

   SceneRamirez tries to enter a moving car as a large group of residents pursues him through Boyle Heights.

   Text

   He ran through the neighborhood and tried to steal a car—but East L.A. chased him down.

   ¡Agárrenlo!

   ¡No se le escape!

   ¡Suelta la puerta!

4. Panel4 — Captured by residents

   SceneSeveral residents pin Ramirez to the pavement as police arrive, while neighbors look on.

   Text

   Residents captured Ramirez and held him until police arrived, ending the reign of the Night Stalker.

   ¡Gracias a Dios!