Foul Play Ruled Out Regarding Fatal Hoverpod Crash

by James Calhoun (CoyoteNet)

GREAT UNKNOWN, MOBIUS, 09-OCT-2000: Authorities conducting an investigation regarding an incident involving an out of control hoverpod crashing into the Zone of Silence and exploding have ruled today that the crash was merely accidental. The hoverpod's pilot, identified as an ex-Wolf Pack member named Drago, was killed in the explosion.

Investigators were first suspicious due to the nature of the accident, wondering how the hoverpod could have wandered six miles off its planned course at full speed without the pilot noticing. Other things which raised questions were wires recovered from the wreckage that showed traces of gunpowder similar to the type used in blasting caps, along with the main controls appearing to have been intentionally jammed. Also recovered at the scene was a partially burned note, the remnants of which read "Prepare to burn in Hell, you [illegible]. Your ex-girlfriend, Hers[illegible]".

However, it was discovered this morning that the hoverpod was fitted with a Firestone anti-grav unit, model AT. In light of the many other hoverpod accidents involving these anti-grav units which have brought about a full recall from the parent company, investigators have determined that this was the most likely cause for the hoverpod to travel so far off course and then suddenly veer 75 degrees left into the Zone of Silence, causing the fatal explosion of the rear-mounted power cells.

The small pile of ashes which are believed to be the remains of Drago will be scattered across the Mobian desert tomorrow. He is not known to have any living family members, but it is believed that he once owned a canary named Phil.

[Photo (C) Archie Comics]