In Dakota City, Virgil Hawkins is an ordinary kid who gets into big trouble and is forced to join a street gang. That night, Virgil's gang engaged in a scuffle near a chemical warehouse, and the police fired tear gas at everyone to stop it. Tear gas accidentally triggered a series of chemical explosions that led to the infamous "Explosive Baby Incident", which affected all gangs and other groups. For example, Virgil gained the powerful ability to project and control electric currents at will. With the help of his creative friend Richie (who later also gained superpowers and became a cog), Virgil decided to become a superhero, Static Man. In fact, this new class comes at the right time, as many of the surviving melee gang members have also gained superpowers and become dangerous supervillains. In the face of this new and growing threat, Static Man is determined to fight for justice, even if his personal life is hit by a huge shock.