"This was too big a topic to ignore," says writer Jim Zub.


Next month’s issue of Marvel Entertainment’s Champions comic book series will touch on the sensitive subject of school shootings, it has been revealed.


The 24th issue of the series, which centers on teen superheroes, will feature a story by the regular creative team of Jim Zub and Sean Izaakse dealing with gun violence and school shootings. Marvel initially released the information — along with an early draft of the issue — to comic book retailers, and then to the public via Newsarama.com Friday.


“Earlier this year, I started talking to [executive editor] Tom Brevoort about writing a Champions issue on the effect of gun violence in schools. Marvel has always strived to deliver 'the world outside our window' and this was too big a topic to ignore," Zub told Newsarama. "I’m incredibly proud of everyone’s work on this issue, and I’m thankful we were given the chance to tell this story.”


News of the issue’s content was accompanied by the release of a new cover for the issue, which features Miles Morales in front of a wall of faces, featuring both the Champions and other characters, with the text “You never think it will happen to you!” running down the side of the page. The originally advertised cover for the issue, by artist R.B. Silva, featured the teen heroes running towards two men, in what appears to be riot gear, who are shooting automatic rifles.


Champions No. 24 will be released digitally and in stores Sept. 12.