This October, Image Comics and Topcaw productions begin their deaths to Pachuco, a bold and emotional fifth-issue noir miniseries of writer Henry Barajas (Lavos de Mayo, Helm Greycastle), artist Rachel Merrill (Izzy N’ Jean), and colorist Lee Lafridge. Inspired by Zoot’s suits and double compensation, the series blends historical fiction, crime drama and cultural resistance.
After Los Angeles was led to the aftermath of a sleepy lagoon murder and the riots of the Zootsuit in 1943, the story follows private Iricaldo “Ricky” Telles to compete to resolve the murder before he became the target of a violent, racially charged manhunt. Tensions are erupting between US Navy servicemen and Mexican-American youth, and Teles must sail through cities where justice is scarce. Being a Mexican could be a death sentence.
Fans participating in San Diego Comic-Con will get an early taste with death in the Pachuco #1 limited edition Ashkan, available at the Top Cow booth (#2629). Henry Barajas will sign up throughout the weekend and appear in “Top Cow: The New Universe!” Panel at Panel #4 on Saturday, July 26th at 12pm.
Barajas calls it the most personal project to date, and draws real history to shed light on the racial injustice that still echoes today. “This story comes from deep research and a deep place in my heart,” he said. “We’re swinging for the fence.”
Rachel Merrill’s expressive, rough visuals, combined with the atmospheric colors of Ruffridge, brings 1940s Los Angeles to life with chronological style and emotional weight. “We tell stories about dark times in the past. Now, we’re living one by one,” Merrill said.
The series will be released in a variety of covers from top artists, including David Lapham, Katie Skelly, Marco Finnigean & Gab Contreras and Ramon Villalobos.
Top Cow’s Matt Hawkins highlighted the modern relevance of the story. “It’s a powerful detective story that also faces history head-on. It’s life, urgent, and unforgettable.”
On October 8th, 2025, Pachuco #1 will hit comic shops and digital platforms.
Read the preview below!
