Batman #600: The Scene of the Crime

Quick answer

Batman #600: The Scene of the Crime stands out in Gotham Vault because the issue title, character tags, and 2002-04-01 cover date create a distinct entry point into Batman. Readers can use it to jump from this issue into Batman (Bruce Wayne), Robin (Dick Grayson), Nightwing (Dick Grayson), Batgirl (Barbara Gordon) and related Batman continuity.

Issue summary

Part 1 of ''Bruce Wayne: Fugitive'' kicks off in this oversized issue! Bruce Wayne is suspected of murder and is confronted by his allies in the Batcave--resulting in Batman and Nightwing going toe-to-toe in an amazing display of combat between teacher and student that ends with a shocking betrayal! The Gotham City Police Department begins a manhunt for Bruce Wayne, who has escaped from custody. In his Batman persona, Wayne has returned to his manor, and specifically to the Batcave beneath it, remembering many of the pains of his life so far, the complications of his double life. Here he is confronted by Batgirl, Robin and Nightwing, and, via computer, by Oracle. They want to know why he didn't tell them that he was planning an escape and are shocked when he says he's not going to try to prove Bruce Wayne's innocence. He also refuses to confirm to them that he is indeed innocent. The evidence is strong, particularly as it seems Vesper had indeed discovered that Bruce and Batman were one and the same. Batman declares that Bruce Wayne is nothing more than a mask, and that from now on there simply is no Bruce Wayne, a declaration that is shocking to the others, particularly as Nightwing (as Dick Grayson) is Wayne's adopted son. After a tussle with Nightwing, Batman leaves the cave, the others wondering what on earth is going on. Batman then hits the streets, feeling free now that…

Characters listed for this issue

Batman (Bruce Wayne)The Dark Knight of Gotham. Billionaire by day, vigilante by night. No superpowers, just iron…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

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Robin (Dick Grayson)Open this Gotham Vault character file to see linked appearances, story arcs, and related com…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

Nightwing (Dick Grayson)The first Robin, all grown up. Acrobat, detective, leader. The best of Batman without the da…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

Batgirl (Barbara Gordon)The first and greatest Batgirl. The Joker took her legs but not her spirit — she became Orac…VIEW APPEARANCES ›