Inspector Frost investigated a break-in at a high-end penthouse. The balcony doors were smashed, mud tracked across the Persian rug, and the wall safe was empty. However, Frost noticed that the television was still playing a live morning broadcast, yet the clock on the wall had stopped at 3:15 AM due to a dead battery. Frost immediately knew the burglary was a hoax. Why?
A live broadcast at 3:15 AM
If the clock stopped at 3:15 AM, the break-in supposedly happened then. However, a 'live morning broadcast' wouldn't be airing at 3:15 AM in the middle of the night, proving the TV was turned on later in the day to fake a daytime crime scene.
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: Medium. More like this: Detective riddles with answers or try Truth & Lie Island for a different kind of puzzle.
More detective riddles
An antique pocket watch was stolen during a thunderstorm. The suspect insisted he never left his apartment all night, pointing out that his shoes were completely dry. Detective Sterling looked at the suspect's trousers and immediately arrested him. What did Sterling see?
A master thief stole a rare manuscript from a museum display case. The guard swore the thief wore thick lead-soled boots that echoed heavily through the stone hallways. Yet, the forensic team found only delicate, soft footprints leading out the back door. How did the detective solve this contradiction?
Detective Miller entered a freezing cabin in the woods. The sole occupant sat dead in a rocking chair, hands tied behind his back. The cabin had no electricity, no fireplace, and no source of heat. Yet, Miller noticed a massive puddle of water beneath the chair. What caused the water?
A wealthy merchant was found poisoned in his locked study. On the mahogany table sat three wine glasses: one half-full of red wine, one empty, and one containing a mysterious clear residue. The butler stated the merchant poured himself a glass of red wine at 8:00 PM and never touched another bottle. Detective Miller looked at the glasses and arrested the cook. Why?
A man is found dead in his apartment on a Tuesday morning. The investigator looks around and finds Tuesday's newspaper, Monday's newspaper, Sunday's newspaper, and three empty milk cartons. The investigator instantly knows it was a targeted murder, not a natural death. What tipped off the investigator?
Detective Sterling arrived at a seaside cottage where a counterfeiter had been operating. The suspect was found at a desk surrounded by printing plates, high-grade paper, and specialized ink. The suspect sneered, 'You can't prove a thing; I haven't printed a single bill yet!' Sterling pointed to a drying rack in the corner and arrested him. What was on the rack?