Wild Dog #1-4 is a
four-issue comic book limited series published by DC Comics from September to December 1987. Written by
Max Allan Collins (the acclaimed author of
Road to Perdition) and illustrated by co-creator
Terry Beatty, this mini-series introduced one of the most unique, unhinged, and gritty street-level vigilantes in the DC Universe.
The character later reached mainstream popularity after appearing as a major recurring hero in the CW television series Arrow.
Plot Overview
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The Setting: The story takes place in the fictionalized Midwest location of River City, Iowa, a nice town being actively torn apart by local mob syndicates and an influx of domestic terrorists.
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The Vigilante: Fed up with systemic corruption and police helplessness, a heavily armed vigilante wearing a hockey mask, a local college football jersey, and camo pants begins brutally slaughtering the criminals. The media subsequently names him "Wild Dog."
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The Whodunit: The narrative operates as an active mystery. Across the four issues, the creative team frames multiple characters—including an ex-marine, an aggressive reporter, and a local auto mechanic—leaving the reader guessing who is behind the mask.
- The Reveal: In the final issue (#4), the vigilante's true identity is revealed to be Jack Wheeler, a former star quarterback and ex-Marine whose life was shattered after his girlfriend was murdered by mob hitmen
