Does this look like a gas station to you?

People are getting desperate these days with the economy the way it is or maybe just a bit confused as to where to get items they need.  Last night around 9:30pm I walked out of my apartment to head to the store and after I locked my door I turned and looked down to my car as I always do and saw a man standing in between my car and the car parked next to it.  Well I thought it was my neighbor whose parking place is next to mine but wondered why he was on the passenger side of his car.  I watched this man for a few moments and he was, what it looked like taking a plastic bag off his legs.  It was raining so again I didn't understand but figured he was trying to keep dry.  Then he took a step forward and reached out for the back part of my car right where the gas tank compartment is and flipped open the door that covers the gas cap.  At that moment I realized it was not my neighbor and figured out the guy was going to try and steal gas from my car. 
In a panic I screamed "HEY, GET AWAY FROM THAT CAR!!!" and the man quickly picked up his plastic container and siphon hose and made a quick retreat out of there.  He didn't run just quickly walked off and around the building.  He never looked up in my direction, I'm guessing so as to not show his face.  I then walked down to my car after dropping off the trash I had to throw away and got in my car and headed to the store.  As I was leaving I looked for the man but didn't see him.  When I returned I drove through the parking lot of the complex to see if he was attempting to hit someone else but didn't see him.  I hope I scared him off and away from the complex.  I couldn't believe someone would be so bold to try and steal gas out of a parked car at 9:30 at night.  I would think later in the night would be a better time when most people are asleep. 
I wished I hadn't panic and waited to see if he could really get into my gas tank since I have a locking gas cap or I should have just pressed the panic button on my key chain that would have probably freaked him out more than just my yelling.  Or better yet walked up to him and said "What ya doin?" Just to see what he would do or say.  Although that might be a bit too dangerous.   I just hope that if he comes back again and finds the locking gas cap and can't get gas that he doesn't decide to break into the car just to see if there is anything inside to steal.  Aw the joys of living in an apartment complex without security gates.