It seems three executives at a car dealership in Western Nebraska took off with 81 new Fords and Toyotas worth about $2.5 million.

The cars disappeared from Legacy Auto Sales in Scottsbluff, according to The Associated Press.

The Whodunnit became a Canyoubelieveit a day later when owner Allen Patch, controller Rachel Fait and general manager Rick Covello did not turn up for work - and employees found their desks were cleaned out.

Some of the vehicles have turned up at auction and in an airport parking lot and an arrest warrant is out for the three apparent masterminds, who are wanted on suspicion of theft.

In something of an understatement, John Childress, Scotts Bluff County's chief deputy county attorney, said it was "...not an expected departure."

- Peter C.T. Elsworth