what's wrong with my top?

[vitaminC]

Before leaving the house this morning, I put the top down and heard what seemed like a bit more noise than normal, though the top went down without issue so I disregarded it.

Upon arriving at work and putting the top up, no unusual sounds. However, I walked around to the passenger side and see this bit where it should not be. What is this piece and what may have caused it to arrive in this position?



I will drop the top again on my way home and see what happens...