Yes you can. Under the "effects doctrine" see United States v. Aluminum Company of America, 148 F.2d 416 (2d Cir. 1945) US courts routinely exercise jurisdiction over foreign citizens and companies for acts that take place outside of the US if those acts adversely affect citizens. If they do not show up, assuming you served them properly then it is possible to obtain a default, however consider the practical aspects of enforcing the default. Likewise if you were involved an activity that is otherwise illegal where you reside you may not be able to recover in a civil suit.