"Cap" may be dead.

Captain America, the star-spangled superhero of the Marvel Comics universe, suffered multiple gunshot wounds on the steps of New York City's federal courthouse last week and is in critical condition, if not dead. There were at least two shooters, and police took one in custody but believe the close-range shooter is still at large.

"Captain America" issue No. 25 had the story of this assassination, which stirs up comic-book memories of 1993, when Superman (DC Comics Universe) died.

And although the comic, as well as online issues of Marvel's own "Daily Bugle" newspaper, imply he is dead, that may not be the case.

Mimi Cruz, general manager of Salt Lake's Night Flight Comics, said there is some doubt as to his death. She said the "Civil War Initiative" comic, which also came out March 7, states that Captain America is in "critical condition."

"I don't think he's dead," Cruz said. "Or, Marvel won't allow him to stay dead."

A patriotic "Super Soldier" who was part of a U.S. Army experiment, Cap is well-known for his indestructible shield, his leadership and skills with only minor superpowers. Known as Steve Rogers in his civilian life, Captain America had most recently been leading a rebellious group of Marvel superheroes against the government's Super Hero Registration Act. He also helped end that civil war. His age is unknown, since he was in suspended animation for a time around World War II.

Issues of Captain America's shooting sold very well last week. "We sold out really fast," Cruz said.

Marvel Comics has ordered a second printing of issue No. 25, and it should be in stores by March 28, to sell for $2.99. All initial copies have been sold out, but Cruz believes this second printing will allow anyone who wants a copy to find one.

Surprisingly, Marvel was somehow able to successfully keep this impending death issue a secret until the comic book came out, and it was a big surprise to fans and retailers alike. "They did keep it a secret," Cruz said, adding that her staff unpacked comics as usual, and it took several hours before anyone noticed Captain America was shot in the book.

She said Captain America's possible death has not had nearly the impact that Superman's did, though. In fact, the total number of printed issues is fewer than 15 percent the amount issued when the Man of Steel died.

Still, this was a surprise, and of all the heroes in the Marvel universe, Captain America is probably the most moral and untainted of them all. Cruz said some of the people who came in and purchased an issue don't normally buy any comics.

If he did die, will he stay dead? Will someone else become a new Captain America?

There are already rumors that Cap will come back to life by issue No. 50. Few bloggers on Marvel's Web site seem to believe anyone else but Rogers could really work as Captain America. Some may try to fill his costume, but like the Man of Steel's so-called death 14 years ago, Marvel will surely find an inventive way to resurrect or heal him.

For more information, go to www.marvel.com.

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E-mail: lynn@desnews.com