It appears that a real-life Grinch is on the loose in New Hampshire as a beloved life-sized 'Elf on a Shelf' has been stolen.
Dubbed 'Zippy,' the mannequin dressed in festive attire has become a staple in the town of Deerfield for the last three years, appearing throughout the community during the holiday season.
But much like the middle of many a Christmas movie, Zippy's story took a dark turn on Monday when a nefarious ne'er-do-well snatched the elf from his prescribed spot that day in front of a park.
Stunned and saddened by this development, the Deerfield Rescue Squad, who act as the elf's handlers, took to Facebook to sound the alarm and let residents know that Zippy had gone missing.
More on this holiday horror story for poor Zippy at the Coast to Coast AM website.