This HAZMAT tent was errected next to Virtue Memorial Hospital. Inside, bite victims Arashi Ryba and Zoey Clowes await the antidote serum from Dr. Richard Stevenson CDC.

On the streets of Missing Mile it was a case of dead men walking – literally.

Those irreparably infected with the Romero virus, commonly known as Zombies, helped themselves to a smörgåsbord of human flesh as unsuspecting citizens ran for their lives.

This is not the first time the Romero virus has surfaced in Missing Mile, though after remaining dormant for so long, the question lingers; why now? What has brought this virus of the undead back to life in our city?

“It could be for a number of reasons. Anything from overexposure to the sun to an untreated case of Herpes could bring the Romero virus back to the surface,” speculated Dr. Hank Lemon who was on scene in Virtue Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Room.

Symptoms of full blown Romero include vomiting black blood, decaying of the flesh, uncontrollable rage, an urge to bite, and cravings for human flesh.

“You start to look at your fellow humans as a primary food source,” elaborated Dr. Richard Stevenson CDC.

This gastrointestinal lust for human flesh serves not only to feed the Zombies, but to spread the Romero virus amongst the population.  Zoey Clowes knew something was wrong after being bitten in the right arm when the following symptoms began to present.

“The bite wound started to burn, kind of like someone pouring acid on my arm and it was seeping through. Then every step felt like I was carrying a truck on my back. The burning started to spread and I was sweating like crazy.”

As time progressed, her symptoms worsened to the point that she nearly gave up all hope for remedy.

“I couldn’t hear anything anymore. Everything was blurry and suddenly I was angry, for no reason at all I just felt angry and” she paused,  ”hungry.”

Luckily, a serum has been invented since the last outbreak which halts and eliminates the virus from the system of those bitten if administered within one hour of puncture;  with a 99.96% success rate no less.

“The last time we had an outbreak, our only antidote was a shotgun,” recalled Dr. Lemon.

Approximately 30 minutes after being bitten, Clowes received this antidote which also granted her immunity from the disease for a 24-hour period.  However, for some, the experience of the antidote was worse than the initial attack.

“It was like someone injecting me with acid, or lava, something so hot it could burn through steel,” described suspected bite victim MMPD Sergeant Aleksi Zaytsev.

Clowes echoed this with her account of the experience, “Like fire – worse than the poison from the bite itself. It’s a pain you cant really describe.”

Painful, but necessary to prevent the transmission of the disease, Dr. Stevenson estimated treating at least 10 bite victims with the serum as of press time.

Though preventative measures are few once in the midst of a Zombie, there are a few precautions you can take to ensure the health and safety of you and your loved ones.

“Make sure your friends and relatives can speak and haven’t got any bite marks before allowing them in to your shelter,” cautioned Sgt. Zaytsev.

In addition, wearing a surgical mask over your mouth and nose as well as protective glasses may ward off inevitable blood splatter transmission. And if you’re going to shoot, aim for the head.

MMPD are working double duty to not only contain the zombies, but also the chaos they have induced within city limits which has risen to riot-like proportions.

“At the present time, the MMPD’s primary role in this situation is to seek and destroy this threat to our community by any means necessary. It is our duty and responsibility to keep the citizenry of Missing Mile safe and to prevent further contamination of our populous by this aggressive virus.  We urge all civilians to remain indoors and encourage them to reinforce all entryways and to keep away from windows,” said Deputy Inspector Lennon Daines in an official statement from the MMPD.

“Additionally, if you come to find you’ve been bitten or suspect even in the least that you may have been infected, seek immideate medical attention at the HAZMAT tent outside of Virtue Memorial Hospital.”

Photo and story by Jon Haystack

As I walk up to the waffle house door, my faint reflection looks straight at me between the glass, as if it was in another world parallel to this one. It mimics me, taunting me, following every action that I do and any in sight of its’ view.

Blinking twice, I go to turn the handle as it does at the exact moment and the door swings back. My reflection soon dissipates as I enter. Walking inside, I can smell the aroma of sizzling batter, warm syrup, and cooked toast. The waitress, Suzie Applebottom, is busy working behind the counter. Moving from the waffle maker to the stoves, she happily works through the day to keep those eager for waffles, well fed.

People sitting in seats, gossiping about their day and what’s to become. The commotion spills outside as some leave but is soon replaced by several more.

The moment soon fades away as the door shuts, followed by a single chime and the rising level of the atmosphere going on inside. I head past the stool chairs, waving to the waitress and spot a red booth that looks comforting and stride onward. Sitting down with a soft thud, I rest my back against the cushion and breathe a sigh of relief, enjoying the moment for the town hardly rests itself.

Turning my head over, I stare at the glass window looking toward Mooby’s and the rest of the neighborhood. Seeing my old friend and everyone inside, staring right back at me but more clearer from the light we lock eyes but I break away as citizens of the town walk past, taking quick looks inside but still walking forward.

It is dark outside, street lights, makeshift fires, headlights and the moonlit sky are all that illuminate the town. Turning back, I lose sight of my reflection but know it’s still with me and I look around the Waffle hut before motioning the waitress over, hearing my stomach growl softly.

Editor’s Note: Mileposts is a new column by Jon Haystack dedicated to narrative entries describing his experiences in the many noteworthy places of Missing Mile.

This still was captured by Quick Stop surveillance cameras depicting employee, Manny Dryke, in surrender to the masked and armed burglar.

Quick Stop employee, Manny Dryke, was robbed at gunpoint during his first shift back following medical leave.

Dryke was preoccupied with sorting the overwhelming amount of bills that had accumulated over the past few months in his absence when the robbery occurred.

The burglar, who Dryke depicted as a “masked goomba”, demanded the employee’s arms in the surrender position and the money from the till.  Donning a shotgun, ski mask, and trench coat, the burglar was nearly unidentifiable, and according to Dryke, not particularly memorable.

“If a guy came in dressed like a clown and throwing puppies, that would toss me off guard, but not this fella.”

Nevertheless, one important identifying feature did not go unnoticed. “He had a thick English accent and seemed light on his ‘H’ pronunciation,” Dryke recalled.

With the recent release of Jack Baxter, combined with the linguistic evidence,  speculation has swirled that The Syndicate (formerly The Firm) is to blame.  However, the amount stolen in the robbery was hardly enough to cover the gas for the getaway car according to Dryke.  “I figure he got away with about $45 worth, probably a button or two as well.”

But experts allege that the purpose of the robbery was not a one-time get rich quick operation, rather an investment in to a long term business relationship where payment is paid for protection.  Scare tactics such as the one described are often used to show these employees the “or else” factor.

“Given how lucrative the operations of the organization are currently, we believe this to be nothing more than a mere attempt to expand an already fully functioning racket by the Syndicate; in other words, extortion.” Stated MMPD Captain Lennon Daines.

Regardless, Dryke seemed remarkably nonchalant given the circumstances and believes it was nothing more than a sporadic event.

“I’m not phased by the robbery. Though it was swift and effective, I honestly see no need to panic about a random robbery.”

As of press time no charges  have been filed.

The letter pictured above was delivered to the Missing Mile Times office in an unmarked package. Written in Arabic, we've had it translated for our readers only to discover that Cell-13 have taken credit for two recent explosions within Missing Mile.

A letter claiming to be from Cell-13′s leader appeared after a rocket propelled explosion obliterated the patrol vehicle of North Carolina State Highway Patrol Trooper Romeo Staheli earlier today.  Remarkably, he lived to tell the tale.

“I noticed two large green Szym made utility trucks approach my vehicle. They stopped in front of the Sacred Yew and one man stepped from the driver’s side of the first truck. As soon as he exited I knew trouble was coming.”

The suspect was described as being clothed head to toe in military garb in addition to wearing full body armor and an automatic rifle ( speculated to be of Soviet origin).

“He opened fire on my parked cruiser, shattering my windshield and making me scramble out and towards the rear,” describes Trooper Staheli in chilling detail.

“He paused after firing several rounds, and I took that pause as my chance to act. I drew my USP pistol and ran West towards the trailer park, firing off several rounds as I went. Shortly after that I heard the sound of a rocket launcher being fired. The projectile then hit my vehicle and exploded, knocking me to the ground and decimating my vehicle.”

Trooper Staheli quickly rose in time to see one of the Szym trucks drive past and it was then that he heard something drop from the cab.

“I saw a grenade, which caused me to dive for cover again. After around half a minute of waiting and no explosion I surmised that the grenade was either a dummy or was not operating correctly. I did not see any more of the green trucks that day, nor of their two operators.”

Trooper Staheli believes that a task force needs to be enacted between members of the NCSHP and their MMPD ESU counterparts in order to create a seamless network of shared information and leads on Cell-13.

Proving that the term trooper applies to Staheli in more ways than just rank, he finished with this statement; “I am currently back on duty, as my wounds are not great enough to stop me from enforcing the laws in North Carolina.”

This preceded the letter in which Cell-13 not only claimed responsibility for this explosion, but also for last week’s truck explosion which set Mooby’s aflame. Please find the complete translation below:

“The attack that took place today in your pathetic city was indeed made by Cell-13.  We have remained dormant for too long plotting our next attack. The increase in number of State Troopers in your city is making a fine target as I assume you found out today at around thirteen hundred hours.  I noticed we left you a nice present –  the cold war era hand grenade.  It should make a nice addition to your evidence collection, but as I know and you know by now, there are no prints or any genetic information that you can find on this hunk of metal and explosives.  The bombing that took place some time ago at that fast food place was indeed us.  It seems that the timer was set to go off a little bit early, but no matter, there was damage still done.  Do not think we have not been watching the city. We know what is going on.  After all, we are not your ordinary terrorist cell who does not think and just acts.  We are the new breed of terror and I assure you, we will not be leaving any time soon.

Leader of Cell-13″

MMPD Officials were also delivered a copy of this letter and are actively investigating.

She doesn’t come toting machine guns, skin tight clothing, or tattoos, but she does warn against letting her big city ways fool you.

She gets upset sometimes, just like the rest of us, but overall she describes herself as a peaceful person looking for closure, a chance at happiness, and a break from the past.

It gives me great pleasure to introduce this week’s subject of A Mile in My Shoes, Delilah McDoodle.

MMT: Could you state your full name for the record?
DM: Delilah Dee McDoodle.

MMT: Pretty name.  Do you have any nicknames?
DM: Del or Dee sometimes.
DM: I refuse to respond to, “Hey Bitch!” I don’t care how many times I hear it on the streets.
MMT: Damn and I thought that one was reserved for me only!

MMT: Ok Del, could you describe yourself in three words for our readers?
DM:  Quiet, insecure, and unforgiving.
MMT: Duly noted.  I’ll do my best not to require forgiveness for any of the questions I’m about to ask you.

MMT: What would you say is your biggest pet peeve?
DM: [sighs] I expected more activity in this town. Of course I know it’s just a small town, but all the more reason to get to know your neighbours better. Everyone seems really tight knit and closed off.
DM: It’s a lot more quiet when I’m out and about.  Perhaps I sleep through all of the action.
MMT: It can certainly be difficult to find your place, though once you do, it is very tight knit you’re right. It may seem like a detriment now, but you’ll benefit  from it soon enough I think.

MMT: How would you describe your role within the Missing Mile Community?
DM: I don’t suppose I have a role. My cards haven’t been played yet. I’d like to get in to the business again. When it’s my time. For now I’d just like to find a place that feels comfortable enough for me to keep coming back to.
MMT: What business do you speak of?
DM:  I used to be an executive secretary for a car company though I’d rather not mention the name. I’ve always been busy, on the go and stuff. I like it that way. It keeps my mind off of other things.
MMT: I can certainly relate to that. And executive secretaries definitely keep busy. I’m sure someone will find good use for those kinds of skills here.
DM: [laughs] I guess you could say I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty.
MMT: Then Missing Mile is definitely for you!

MMT: What would you say is your favourite place in Missing Mile?
DM: I do enjoy the record store.
MMT: Ah yeah, I could spend hours in there! What’s your favourite type of music?
DM: I like a little bit of everything really.  I could listen to Classical music for hours.

MMT: If you could go on a road trip with one person from Missing Mile, who would it be and why?
DM: I’d probably invite the Mayor.  I’d like to pick her brain and share my ideas with her.
MMT: You’re in it to win it! That’s the first time we’ve had that answer.  Smart girl.
DM: Who wouldn’t want to sit down with the big cheese who runs the show?

MMT: What has been your most memorable moment in Missing Mile thus far?
DM: I got my first ticket by a couple of scary State Cops for failing to wear my helmet. I still have yet to pay it.
MMT: Damn! How much do they charge for that?
DM: Two hundred.  Can you believe it?
MMT: [sighs] Staties.

MMT: What has been your biggest accomplishment in Missing Mile thus far?
DM: My biggest accomplishment thus far would be that no one really knows who I am. I feel I can really move on now and that’s good for me.
MMT: And what is it that you’re moving on from exactly?  I’ll gladly accept cryptic hints in lieu of a straight answer.
DM: A very bad relationship.  Some men are just scum. I really don’t want to get in to it.
MMT: Need a hit?
DM: Of what?
[laughter]

MMT: What is one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
DM: I don’t own any firearms and I don’t plan to purchase any.  Ever.
MMT: Preach on sister. We are both in that lonely boat it seems.

MMT: Lastly in fairness, is there anything you’d like to ask me?
DM: How much for the boyfriend?  You know… the Captain?
DM: [laughs] Kidding!
MMT: Priceless! But for everything else there’s MasterCard.

Next week’s interviewee TBA

Nominations are open in the comments section below

This billboard and LED display at the Main and Paper intersection serve as reminders of North Carolina Highway Patrol's DUI and DWI Zero Tolerance Week.

Just one drink before before operating a vehicle is all it will take to receive a traffic citation in conjunction with North Carolina Highway Patrol’s DUI and DWI Zero Tolerance Week.

“We are iniating an immediate campaign agianst all indviduals who have a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.03 or higher in their system,” warned NCHP Lieutenant Richard Ceriano.

“The average standard alcoholic beverage will raise a persons BAC anywhere from 0.03 to 0.05 and it takes an average of 1.5 to 2 hours for a person to remove that much alcohol from their body,” explained Lt. Ceriano.

This initiative was implemented after NCHP lost one of their own due to the inherent carelessness of a drunk driver.  Trooper Kevin S. Jackson was assisting a disabled car on the Interstate’s shoulder when he was struck and killed by an oncoming SUV. Said driver recorded a BAC of 0.16 .

Unfortunately, this is far from an isolated incident. “In all of North Carolina there has been a recent increase in the number of accidents that involved substance abuse,” said Lt. Ceriano.

The lack of taxi service in Missing Mile will not serve as an excuse when it comes time to leave the party as Lt. Ceriano offers a couple of safe, legal alternatives.

“If you are going to drink, I suggest walking in groups together, hang out or sleep over at the persons house.  Remember, if you are in your car on the road, even if it is parked, it will still end in a DUI or DWI charge.”

Lt. Ceriano and Trooper Romeo Staheli will be enforcing the Zero Tolerance Week in Missing Mile beginning Saturday, October 3rd and ending Saturday, October 10th.

MMPD Captain Lennon Daines and Lieutenant Sean Hawksby take custody of Jack Baxter from State Police liaison Lieutenant Richard Ceriano just prior to Baxter's formal release.

Jack Baxter, leader of The Firm and accused Machete Murderer, was released from prison today on to the streets of Missing Mile where he once reigned supreme.

“It’s good to be back,” said a smiling, if not taunting, Baxter.

However, it would seem the good news is not for all.  ”Baxter getting out isn’t good for anyone,” countered Capt. Daines.

For members of The Firm, this is a day they’ve anticipated since his incarceration. ”We are pleased that our dear friend is being given his freedom,” said one member who wished to remain anonymous.

“I can say we are all very excited of his release,” added Kytherean Thespian, reportedly The Firm’s third in command. It is this very chain of command that has the potential wreak the most havoc upon Baxter’s return to the top.

An interim leader was instated in Baxter’s absence, as previously reported, and has since been identified by MMPD as Marcus Regal.  In addition to inter-gang violence, police are now on the watch for intra-gang strife between Regal and Baxter.

“Baxter, as we’ve all experienced, can be very irrational and tends to act before he thinks. If, for any reason, there is some sort of hiccup in Baxter’s regaining leadership, we’re very concerned as to what consequences it may have on our streets,” expressed Capt Daines who added, “That, however, is a bridge we can only cross once we reach it.”

Members of The Firm are hopeful that it won’t come to that, and one even speculated that Baxter may in fact be a changed man –  a notion the MMPD deemed highly improbable.

“I find that unlikely, but I surely hope he has reformed himself,” laughed Capt Daines.  ”I’ve never been a believer that people will actually change per se, but his getting out early on good behavior does tend to make you think twice,” added Lt. Hawksby.

MMPD vow to remain vigilant in their observation, but are not expecting any isolated acts of violence or crime in celebration directly related to Baxter’s release.

“One of his little running buddies said it best, he was a naughty boy and he’s spent his time in the corner with the dunce cap on his head. The only advice I would give him comes in the form of a question – have you learned your lesson?”

The answer, unfortunately, will only be revealed with time.

This week’s A Mile in My Shoes brings you someone you’ve likely seen, or likely will.

He’s the person many say was their first friend in Missing Mile so he’s not kidding when he says,  ”I’m POPULAR?!”, even if he does phrase it as more of a question than a statement.

Below you’ll discover his karaoke song of choice and learn of his failed venture as a Kentucky Fried Chicken salesman.

A big advocate of Ramen, and not eating the yellow snow; meet the man and the manifestation (of what we’re not quite sure), Jon Haystack.

MMT: Could you please state your full name for the record?
JH: Jon Haystack.

MMT: And do you have any nicknames?
JH: Pyramid Head, Jon Bon, Haystack, a lot I can’t remember.
MMT: Jovi!
JH: Yarr!
[short musical interlude]

MMT: Could you describe yourself in three words for our readers?
JH: Random, silly, and amazing.
MMT: Those three seem to go hand in hand.  Err, hand in hand in hand?
JH: Uhhh.. yeah.

MMT: What’s your biggest pet peeve?
JH: Hmm. When you greet someone while passing by and they say nothing. NOTHING! How rude!
MMT:  That’s a fair one.  Though I have a bad habit of saying hello and dashing before anyone can respond.

MMT: How would you describe your role within the Missing Mile community?
JH: My role? To bring randomness where there is boredom. To bring silliness in awkward occasions. To make people laugh! I’m just a simple Waffle Hut and Tar Cafe cook.
MMT: I think silliness is something we all need in The Mile sometimes, so thank you for that.

MMT: What is your favourite place in Missing Mile and why?
JH: My favourite place is the pier at the Trailer Park.  I would sit there and talk and fish with my many friends and one in particular that I really miss.
MMT: Would that be Locksley?
JH: [sighs] Yeah.
MMT: Ever catch anything interesting?
JH: I left roses at her house..
JH: Oh! I caught some fishies. And junk parts and clothes. Very convenient!
MMT: I’ll say! Once they dry of course.
JH: Yeah.

MMT: If you could go on a road trip with one person from Missing Mile who would it be and why?
JH: Locksley. We’d go to a sushi bar in downtown Chinatown!
MMT: Fabulous!
JH: She likes sushi!
MMT: Who doesn’t?!  Mmm a little wasabi on the side makes for a good time.

MMT: What has been your most memorable moment in Missing Mile thus far?
JH: When Law and I were in chicken suits and we drove a bus around trying to sell Kentucky Fried Chicken.
MMT: Oh my gosh how did I miss that?
JH: Very easily.
MMT: Make some good coin?
JH: No one wanted it sadly.
MMT: I would’ve been down for some original recipe.  Maybe the chicken suits turned them off?
JH: Or the fact I was naked under it. Anyway! Next question!
MMT: [laughs] I hear those suits get sweaty. Moving on!

MMT: What has been your greatest accomplishment in Missing Mile thus far?
JH: When I learned how to pee standing up! No! It was when I sang karaoke at The Sacred Yew one night. A big group was there and I broke my nervousness.
MMT: That is a big accomplishment! Though I must know, what song did you sing?
JH: Wonderwall!
MMT: Classic!

MMT: What is one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
JH: I’m actually a manifestation.
MMT: Interesting.  Could you elaborate on that? I’ve always wondered..
JH: Well, I’m a bit blurry on that. I do remember waking up on the outskirts of town and somehow walked in a daze to the statue.  One thing lead to another and here I am!
MMT:  Well, we’re glad to have you.  Though what exactly are you a manifestation of?
JH: Guilt I think.  Not sure anymore now. Maybe Ramen? Or of the town? No clue.
MMT: I think few of us are sure what we’re manifestations of, but those sound like good options to me.

MMT: Lastly , is there anything you’d like to ask me?
JH:  Where is the headlight fluid?
MMT: Headlight fluid?
JH: [shrugs]
MMT: [laughs] Uhm, I’ll Google it and get back to ya.

Editor’s Note – Headlight Fluid:  Something that you send a newbie to go get when you don’t want them around or are initiating them, usually in to a group or a club.

i.e. “Hey rookie, go get some headlight fluid and elbow grease at the store.”

(source: www.urbandictionary.com)

Next week’s interview: TBA

Nominations can be made in comments below.

(L:R) Lt. Oka Hancroft, Lt. Richard Ceriano, Det. Sgt. Elliot Karpov (behind), The Firm (formerly Carbon) Leader Jack Baxter, Captain Lennon Daines, Det. Sgt Roxanna Vestieri, Sgt. Asuna Kaligawa

The mastermind behind Carbon and its infamous hockey mask was arrested in what nearly became a game of sudden death overtime.

Jack Baxter was charged with kidnapping, blackmail, two counts of assault on an officer, and three counts of homicide in connection with the ‘Machete Murders’. Ultimately, he was only convicted of kidnapping, blackmail, and one count of assault of an officer, which MMPD Captain Lennon Daines attributes to, ”a lack of solid evidence, and witnesses who had since backed out of their agreements to cooperate.” Baxter was hereby sentenced to two weeks of jail time.

The kidnapping of MMPD Detective Sergeant Roxanna Vestieri  occurred       shortly after a bomb threat was reported to MMPD.  This resulted in a search of the Carbon (recently rebranded to The Firm) Warehouse, which produced a list of illegal goods found within.  Jack Baxter desperately wanted this list in an attempt to destroy any incriminating evidence.

Det. Sgt. Vestieri was on duty with her unofficial MMPD partner, Det. Sgt. Elliot Karpov, at the time of the kidnapping.  ”Unfortuately, Mr. Baxter felt it prudent to obtain me in pursuit of the list. A way to get Elliot to feel forced to go get it,” she reasoned.

While both Detectives put up an admirable fight, “I broke a few jaws,” Det. Sgt. Vestieri admits, the kidnapping operation was premeditated, multi-faceted, and ultimately successful in its apprehension.  Two associates formed a dead end in the alley as Baxter boxed them in from behind.  Meanwhile, a sniper was perched atop the warehouse with a bird’s eye view of the incident.

However, the ultimate goal of obtaining the list was foiled as further explained by Det. Sgt. Vestieri.

“Mr. Baxter is short sighted and sloppy. Police files are kept very safe, and in several forms in several locations. Mr. Baxter was given a file of blank papers [presumed to be the list], which he burned.”

An MMPD raid resulted in the live release of Det. Sgt. Vestieri, though not unharmed.  She suffered a broken jaw which had to be wired shut, a severe concussion, and several bruises, while Det. Sgt. Karpov was shot in the hand.

Though the demise of all things ‘Carbon’ is apparent, The Firm is trying to move forward in the absence of their founder.

“It was a shock and a big hit for The Firm,” indicated one member who wished to remain anonymous.

However, not all members shared this sentiment as another anonymous member expressed. “It was a shock, but a blow? I don’t think so. Jack has been a naughty boy and he needed somebody to straighten him out. Best the police do it before we had to.”

Members also stated that an interim leader has been inducted and there is no issue of split loyalty where The Firm is concerned.  ”We are all loyal to him and to Jack, no matter how the situation may finish.”

Capt. Daines suspected as much and noted, “We have not noticed a substantial decrease in their activity, which leads us to believe that there may be more than one head to this dragon.”

This is the first serious arrest of a Firm member, but MMPD assure it won’t be the last. “We will continue to make arrests, continue to do our jobs to the best of our ability, and continue to make life as difficult as possible for these thugs,” assured Capt. Daines.

Det. Sgt. Vestieri added, “I could do my job a lot better if these freaks weren’t allowed back out on the streets.”

Regardless, the inevitable release date looms and members of The Firm await Baxter’s return. “We’ll welcome Jackie boy back with open arms.”

Others have reason to differ.  ”I hope the weasel doesn’t worm his way out of his sentence on parole or anything of the sort. Even at his detainment he threatened to rape me,” alleged Det. Sgt. Vestieri. “I’m sure, however, his cell mates are making it clear that rape is terribly impolite.”

As of press time, Jack Baxter has six days left to serve in his sentence with no indication of parole.

Photo submited by Aleksi Zaytsev. MMPD Sgt. Zaytsev guards the corner of the Mooby's parking lot as MMFD fight flames from a nearby truck explosion that spread to the fast food restaurant.

Burnt food was the only menu option late Thursday evening after a truck explosion spread to ignite popular fast food restaurant, Mooby’s.

MMPD Sergeant Aleksi Zaytsev was the first to arrive on the scene and by that time flames had already engulfed the local hangout.

“There was a large, intense fire spread throughout Mooby’s, which emanated primarily from the husk of a large truck,” Sgt. Zaytsev depicted. ”The back of the truck was torn open, like it was the centre of the explosion.”

This large truck was described as plain black and lacking any logos or identifying graphics.

With the influx of terrorist activity in Missing Mile, rumours that Cell-13 might be responsible for the truck explosion began circulating almost immediately.  However, Sgt. Zaytsev points out that there is one crucial piece needed before Cell-13 can be considered a prime suspect – motive.

“The location and timing seemed to be a waste of resources for a terrorist organization when you consider their intended targets. A terrorists primary goals is to cause massive civilian casualties,” he explained. “The restaurant was closed at the time, and nobody was anywhere near the truck. Why bomb an empty restaurant?”

Despite this, as of press time Sgt. Zaytsev could neither confirm nor deny Cell-13 involvement.  ”There’s definitely a possibility,” he stated.

This leaves the door open for other previously unexpected suspects or even mechanical failure as the explosion and subsequent fire’s cause.

“It may have been volatile cargo stored in an incorrect way. You know how some of these private companies are… no safety regulations.”

As of press time, Cell-13 has not declared responsibility for this incident.