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Detective riddle

A famous painting was swapped for a cheap forgery in a locked museum gallery. The night guard reported hearing a loud splash coming from the indoor decorative pool at midnight, followed by the sound of running footsteps. When Detective Hayes examined the gallery, the floor was completely dry everywhere except for a single puddle right under the painting. Hayes smiled and declared the guard was an accomplice. Why?

About this riddle

Detective riddles are tiny mysteries. Look for the detail in the story that does not fit; it is usually the clue that solves the case.

Difficulty: Hard. More like this: Detective riddles with answers or try Truth & Lie Island for a different kind of puzzle.

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