Manhattanites are stunned, and calling for increased defenses, in the wake of the theft of one of the world's most valuable diamonds, and the murder of Darlene Devoir, famous Manhattan socialite. A posh New York penthouse was the scene of mayhem as the notorious Medusas Gang struck in the very heart of the Empire State. How the pirates managed to infiltrate the exclusive party isn't known, but they didn't evade the watchful eye of the most famous Broadway Bomber, Major Loyle Crawford. Unfortunately, the Empire State Ace was flanked and outnumbered as he struggled to stop the gang's robbery—the target being the famous Hope Diamond.

Major Loyle Crawford (File Photo)

The pirates made good their escape with the prized stone, a rare blue-white diamond in a necklace setting, valued at nearly $200,000. They also left the diamond's owner, Heiress Darlene Devoir, dead in their wake. Empire State Air Militia forces are feverishly patrolling the coastal skies in search of the Medusas Gang. The group's leader, Justine "Battleaxe" Perot, and her wing pilot "Bold" Amanda Hart, were both positively identified by Major Crawford as the culprits.

President LaGuardia appeared before reporters and promised the full force of the Empire State military in the effort to capture the Medusas gang. "The murderous Medusas will be brought to justice, by any means, no matter how long it takes." Major Crawford was just as eager to get his words on record, promising to pursue "Battleaxe" to the ends of the Earth if necessary, and to personally shoot her down.