I've been following this thread with a bit of interest. A few details might help. Were the perps armed, and with what? No report to the police? Most of the locals I have met know just about everyone, and if a particular person is not local, they can be identified. I would assume the police have the same ability. Also, with 3 associated banditos, this should also be a pointer.

Been there, done that, the washing machine ate the T-shirt