By late afternoon, Riley was more discouraged than when they'd started. He met his partner, Charlie Ramos, on the sidewalk. They'd decided, after the first couple of hours, to split up somewhat. They'd alternate houses on each block. That way, they'd finish up faster and could compare notes.

"Anything?" he asked when they met back at their vehicles.

Charlie shook his head. "Nada.

He'd make it a point to stop by and see Jamie and Mike before he went home tonight. ...