The Marked Wager — Richard Swan

After a day of horse racing, someone will leave the track with cash stuffed in their pockets. Jett, a twenty-two year old college student, wants to steal it from them. He asks Billy to join him. Together they form a business venture. Jett, working inside the grandstand, identifies the target. Billy, waiting outside the track grounds, collects the cash. Jett tells Billy to carry a gun, but only to scare the victim; no violence of any kind. Billy agrees. Several counties report random shootings. All victims are killed after a day at the races. The Attorney General orders a task force to find the racetrack serial killer. Jake Manor, a private detective, conducts his own investigation. After Jett's father is killed, he discovers Billy's madness. The statewide manhunt leads to Billy, the next victim. Jett, removing all evidence, dissolves the partnership. He forms another venture, only this time he fails to identify The Marked Wager.