For only its second season, The CW network’s popular hit TV show "Riverdale" has not been kind with the treatment of its characters. Starting the season continuing from the cliffhanger of the shooting of Archie’s dad from last season, there have been several attempted murders within the first few episodes by the mysterious new assailant: The Black Hood. This includes the introduction of recognizable comic book character Midge and her boyfriend Moose as they are shot at in a car and the actual death of the Ms. Grundy-imposter from last season.

However, could the resilient Riverdale gang be losing a major player before the season is up?

The extended promo points towards the grim end of a character

Many fans are examining the extended promo trailer for the mid-Season Finale holiday episode, appropriately titled “Silent Night, Deadly Night,” and have noticed several harrowing images. Amongst the quickly flashing scenes, two have gained the most attention. One of Betty (Lili Reinhart) being held at gunpoint, and one of the Black Hood approaching her while dressed as Santa Claus. Though the former is self-explanatory, it is the latter gaining the most theory about where the season is heading.

According to Teen Vogue, besides its possible allusion to a scene from "Twin Peaks," fans have pointed out the three bodies seen in the background behind the Black Hood.

Upon closer inspection, these appear to be the bodies of the remaining Cooper family members: Alice (Mädchen Amick), Hal (Lochlyn Munro), and Polly (Tiera Skovbye). Though this could be a dream sequence, given Betty’s frequent encounters with the masked menace constantly bringing her to the brink of insanity. However, this doesn’t take away from the fact that the Black Hood’s reign of terror has put several of the characters in danger or on the path to destruction this season.

The fight against the Black Hood

From Archie (Kj Apa)’s creation of the Red Circle, a more intense “neighborhood watch” like organization, to Jughead (Cole Sprouse)’s decision to join the South Side Serpents, the residents of Riverdale have been trying their best to address this situation head-on. However, these efforts have proven more of a hindrance than beneficial.

As they may have created deeper holes for themselves while simultaneously pushing away loved ones and allies.

Is it possible that the Black Hood will successfully kill off a beloved Riverdale citizen before the season is even complete? And will his identity ever be revealed?

We’ll have to tune in to Wednesday’s episode to find out.

"Riverdale" airs Wednesdays on The CW, 8/7c
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