We have had quite a few things come up missing lately. Spot lights, generator, car parts, etc.
Who I think is doing it to us, is these people that go around in a beat up pickup asking if you want your metal junk removed. With the price of scrap as it is, they keep coming back and badgering some people. Doesn't take anything out where we are to just back the truck up, go knock on the door to see if anyones home. If we are, they ask if theres anything we want to get rid of. If not, hey.. its easy pickins. throw whatever they want in the truck under the "junk". I just went out the other night looking for our yard work lights (nice halogens on a tripod stand) and it came up missing.
The last time these guys came around, I made it clear I didn't want to see them here. I told them I knew what the stuff was worth, and Id be dammed if I was gonna give it to them when I can make money off it. The only lucky thing is that we have neighbors on both sides, and people come and go at all hours. But I know a few people that have had items "disappear" after giving up some useless metal junk to one of these guys driving around.
Not to say thats what happened in your case, but Im just posting to make others aware that its going on, and to be on the lookout.
(I've had to threaten 2 people because I wouldnt sell or "give" them my Electra. I told one guy, "look man, I have a mean ass dog in the house, along with a rifle, a compound bow with broadheads, and a freaking phone to call the cops if those dont work. Now get off my property!")