Stolen Bigfoot found in Federal Way - but without feet

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By Associated Press

Summary

Police in the suburb between Seattle and Tacoma said an anonymous tip led to the discovery of the 8-foot, 400-pound wood carving with red reflector eyes on Wednesday beneath a pile of debris in a back yard about a block from where it was stolen.

Story Published: Jan 26, 2007 at 9:29 AM PDT

Story Updated: Jan 26, 2007 at 9:29 AM PDT

Stolen Bigfoot found in Federal Way - but without feet
FEDERAL WAY, Wash. (AP) - Bigfoot has been found, but his feet are missing.

Police in the suburb between Seattle and Tacoma said an anonymous tip led to the discovery of the 8-foot, 400-pound wood carving with red reflector eyes on Wednesday beneath a pile of debris in a back yard about a block from where it was stolen.

A man and a juvenile boy have confessed to taking the imposing chainsaw carving of a sasquatch, a legendary ape-like creature of the Pacific Northwest, police spokeswoman Stacy Flores said. Neither gave a motive, but both could be charged with second-degree theft, she added.

Chiropractor Tom Payne had the carving made and installed it by the driveway to his office about 5½ years ago. It was back in place Thursday, although the 16-inch long feet had been sawed off at the ankles, which are nearly 9 inches thick. The double amputation left the carving 18 inches shorter.

Payne said the perpetrators evidently planned to chop up the entire Bigfoot carving after it vanished Monday and the theft was widely reported in the Puget Sound area.

"I'm glad we got him before they cut him anymore," Payne said. "We're relieved to have him back at the office."

He said he planned to get the statue repaired.

"I'm sure I can find a chainsaw sculptor that might feel up to the task," Payne said.