I'm horrified to hear of such a random & senseless act of vicious cruelty; at any time of the year these "people" would deserve whipping (by the neighbours & family/friends!) of the victims, but 2 days before Christmas?! I hope they nail 'em to a tree. Your neighbours are very fortunate to be surrounded by such good and supportive people; as you say, what MIGHT have happened doesn't bear thinking about.