Dark Reign: The List - Punisher # 1 VF+

Dark Reign: The List - Punisher # 1, published on October 28, 2009, is a pivotal one-shot that drastically altered the Punisher's status quo by depicting the literal death of Frank Castle. Part of a series of "List" specials where Norman Osborn systematically eliminates his enemies, this issue is best known for its shocking and graphic conclusion. 

The Death of Frank Castle

The story follows Norman Osborn using the full might of H.A.M.M.E.R. to hunt down Frank Castle after the vigilante's failed assassination attempt on him. 

• The Confrontation: When standard ground troops fail to capture him, Osborn dispatches Daken (Wolverine’s son and the Dark Avengers' "Wolverine") to finish the job.
• The Final Battle: In a brutal rooftop and sewer duel, Daken's superior healing factor and ferocity overwhelm Frank. The issue ends with Daken graphically dismembering and decapitating the Punisher.
• Aftermath: As H.A.M.M.E.R. soldiers attempt to collect the remains, they are intercepted by Moloids and the Man-Thing, who steal Frank’s body parts. This serves as a direct lead-in to the controversial "Franken-Castle" storyline, where Frank is resurrected as a patchwork monster. 

• Writer: Rick Remender, the regular series writer for the 2009 Punisher run.
• Artist: Legendary artist John Romita Jr., known for his gritty and kinetic action style.