Batman #540 1997

Batman #540, "The Spectre of Vengeance, Part 1: Gotham Welcome," initiates a pivotal storyline. Jim Corrigan, as the Spectre, tracks an arsonist to Gotham. When Batman's intervention inadvertently results in the suspect's death, the Spectre, believing Batman a murderer, turns his vengeful gaze upon the Dark Knight. This issue is notable for launching this significant crossover event and features the first appearance of Vesper Fairchild, a key character in Bruce Wayne's social circle.