Straight Outta Midland Trucker - SS - Front

The unisex heavy cotton tee is the basic staple of any wardrobe. It is the foundation upon which casual fashion grows. All it needs is a personalized design to elevate things to profitability. The specially spun fibers provide a smooth surface for premium printing vividity and sharpness. No side seams mean there are no itchy interruptions under the arms. The shoulders have tape for improved durability.

The claim that Odessa, Texas, was the Murder Capital of the USA in 1982 originates from crime statistics published at the time. In 1982, Odessa had the highest per capita murder rate in the United States, surpassing cities like Miami, which was also experiencing a violent crime wave due to the drug trade.

Why Was Odessa Labeled the Murder Capital?

1. Crime Rate Data

• In 1982, Odessa recorded 27 homicides, which translated to a murder rate of 29.8 per 100,000 residents.

• This was the highest murder rate per capita in the country that year, narrowly beating Miami, which had a rate of 29.7 per 100,000.

2. Oil Boom and Bust Cycle

• Odessa was heavily dependent on the oil industry, and the late 1970s and early 1980s saw an economic boom, bringing in workers, wealth, and crime.

• As the oil boom declined, economic hardship set in, increasing social unrest, unemployment, and violent crime.

3. Media and Law Enforcement Acknowledgment

• The statistic was widely reported in newspapers and media outlets at the time.

• Odessa police officials and local law enforcement acknowledged the crime wave and attributed it to economic decline, drug activity, and transient populations.

4. Comparison to Other Cities

Miami and Detroit were also experiencing high murder rates, but Odessa’s per capita rate for that year was the highest, making it the unofficial murder capital of the U.S. for 1982.

Sources & Coverage

• The story was covered in national newspapers and crime reports at the time.
It was later revisited in historical crime studies about Odessa and the Permian Basin’s oil boom effects.

.: Made with medium fabric (5.3 oz/yd² (180 g/m²)) consisting of 100% cotton for year-round comfort that is sustainable and highly durable.
.: The classic fit of this shirt ensures a comfy, relaxed wear while the crew neckline adds that neat, timeless look that can blend into any occasion, casual or semi-formal.
.: The tear-away label means a scratch-free experience with no irritation or discomfort whatsoever.
.: Made using 100% US cotton that is ethically grown and harvested. Gildan is also a proud member of the US Cotton Trust Protocol ensuring ethical and sustainable means of production. This blank tee is certified by Oeko-Tex for safety and quality assurance.