Contents
Introduction
Harry Joseph “Taco” Bowman, a notorious figure in the world of outlaw bikers, met his demise on March 3, 2019. As the international president of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club from 1984 to 1999, Bowman left an indelible mark on the biker underworld. His life was a tumultuous ride, marked by violence, power struggles, and a relentless pursuit of dominance. In this article, we delve into the circumstances surrounding Taco Bowman’s death and explore the legacy he leaves behind.
The Rise of Taco Bowman
Born in Marysville, Michigan, on July 17, 1949, Bowman grew up in a tough environment. His dark complexion earned him the nickname “Taco,” and he quickly made a name for himself as a formidable figure. In 1970, he became the president of the Detroit chapter of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club, a position that catapulted him into the upper echelons of the biker world. Under his leadership, the Detroit Outlaws expanded their criminal empire, specializing in drug trafficking, prostitution, extortion, gambling, and bombings.
The Outlaws’ Reign
Bowman’s tenure as the international president of the Outlaws was marked by both infamy and power. The club had chapters in over 30 U.S. cities and at least four other countries. But it was during the 1990s that things escalated. A fierce biker war erupted between the Outlaws and their arch-rivals, the Hells Angels. Bowman was at the forefront, orchestrating violent clashes and territorial disputes. His ruthlessness earned him a spot on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list after he was indicted on federal racketeering and murder charges in 1997.
The Capture and Conviction
After 18 months on the run, Bowman was apprehended by the FBI near Detroit in June 1999. His trial in Tampa, Florida, revealed a litany of crimes: murders, firebombings, racketeering, conspiracy, and various drug and firearm offenses. The jury found him guilty, and he received two life prison sentences plus 83 years.
Taco Bowman’s Demise
In the twilight of his life, Taco Bowman battled cancer while serving time at the Federal Medical Center in Butner, North Carolina. On March 3, 2019, he succumbed to the disease, closing the chapter on an era of outlaw motorcycle gangs. His legacy remains a mix of fear, respect, and fascination, forever etched in the annals of biker history.
Conclusion
Taco Bowman’s cause of death may have been cancer, but his impact on the biker world was far more malignant. As we reflect on his life, we recognize the complex web of violence, loyalty, and power that defined his existence. The outlaw era lost one of its most enigmatic figures, leaving behind a legacy that continues to intrigue and haunt us.
