- by Paul Vanwyck

OWEN SOUND - The mysterious object known as the 'Serpent's Tooth' is now part of another mystery: who stole it last night?

The criminal or criminals stole a car and rammed it into a hydro pole, taking out the power at Monstrous Auctions where the tooth was to be auctioned today.

The night guard, Gill Teaparty, had already been rendered unconscious by some unknown substance he consumed, according to his boss, Security Director Sue Spect.

"The police are trying to determine what was used to put Gill to sleep," she said, "and how they got it to him."

Detective Paul Surrest said the investigation is still in the early stages.

"We're still doing the blood work to see what sent this Teaparty guy off to la-la-land, still gathering and analyzing what we've found at the scene and taking statements," he said. "What I can tell you is that the only item that seems to be missing is the 'Serpent's Tooth'."

Discovered near the Waste Water Treatment plant in Owen Sound, the 'Serpent's Tooth' is believed to be the first evidence that the mythical monster known as the Owen Sound Serpent really exists.

"The criminal or criminals were clearly after the tooth," said Detective Eva Dence. "Other valuable items were completely ignored. The tooth is only four inches long, so it would be easy to hide, and with all the attention it's been getting the tooth could go for a pretty penny."

Spect said the auction house is doing everything it can to aid the police investigation. "We're working closely with the police and co-operating fully. We want to assure our clients that Monstrous Auctions is still a safe and secure place to auction their unique items. We will take every necessary step to prevent something like this from happening again in the future."

Detective Surrest said the tooth may be gone for good.

"The thief probably already had a buyer lined up," he speculated. "It's probably already on its way out of the country. But justice will be served. We always get our man."