On December 24, 2019 at approximately 7:30 PM, Deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area of Pennsylvania Ave and Mason Dixon Rd for a reported burglary in progress.

Upon arrival, Deputies contacted the resident, who advised he was getting ready for bed, placing his cap on his head, hoping to settle his brain for a long winters nap. Suddenly, from outside of his residence, arose such a clatter, that he sprang from his bed to see what was the matter.

The resident advised he couldn’t believe what he saw in the sky, a miniature sleigh with eight tiny reindeer. The driver of the sleigh was a little old man, so lively and quick, the resident explained to the Deputies he thought, “Could this be Saint Nick?”

The resident watched the sleigh disappear from sight, followed by the sound of prancing and pawing of little hooves upon his roof.

The resident ran down the stairs to his living room and was shocked to see the old man emerge from the chimney. He was dressed all in fur, from head to toe, which was tarnished with ash and soot. He carried a bundle of toys flung upon his back, he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.

The resident described the man as having a twinkle in his eye, rosy red cheeks with a chubby and plump physic, he looked like a right jolly old elf.

With a wink of his eye and a twist of his head, the resident said the old man rose up the chimney, disappearing with no dread.

After speaking with the resident, Deputies processing the home and surrounding property at which time they discovered what appeared to be hoof prints on the roof of the residence. Additionally, boot prints were discovered throughout the living room of the home.

The suspect left behind numerous gift wrapped items that were located at the base of the Christmas tree.

The Sheriff’s Office has continued to receive similar reports throughout Washington County.

Anyone with information on the identity of the suspect is asked to have a very Merry Christmas!