Detective Drake investigated a break-in at a high-end penthouse. The homeowner insisted the thief entered through the balcony sliding door on the 20th floor. Drake looked at the balcony floor, which was covered in thick, pristine winter snow with only one set of boot prints leading *from* the door to the ledge, and none leading *to* it. Why did Drake know the burglary was a hoax?
Footprint continuity
If a thief walked onto the balcony from outside, there would be two sets of prints (coming and going) or wind drift effects. A single set starting at the door and ending at the ledge means someone stepped out from inside the warm apartment.
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: Easy. More like this: Detective riddles with answers or try Truth & Lie Island for a different kind of puzzle.
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