Mystery of Ventnor, N.J. bust solved

VENTNOR, N.J. (WPVI) -- Police have solved the mystery of the bust found in Ventnor, New Jersey.

Authorities say the sculpture is of the late Samuel Shames, a dentist in Delaware.

It was back in November officers found the 20 pound life-size bust of a man's head sitting on the boardwalk near Lafayette Avenue.

People have speculated that the bust was a likeness of football coach Knute Rockne or Luca Brasi from the Godfather.

The only clue on the sculpture was a signature that said Hilda '72.

Police went public with the search for answers.

Family members then contacted police, saying Shames' wife sculpted the piece.

They think the bust was lost during a move, when the Shames sold their shore house.