How did 16 cats die in an abandoned Coventry garden pond?

In Coventry, a grim discovery at an abandoned Canley garden pond has turned a quiet street into a focal point of distress. Children on May 17 alerted Paula Singleton, who later recovered the remains of 16 cats from a 6-foot-deep water tank behind an empty semi-detached home. Two of the cats belonged to Singleton, who has long cared for strays in the area and had reported missing pets earlier this spring. The magnitude of the find, including skulls and other remains, prompted investigations by the RSPCA and West Midlands Police who say they are keeping an open mind.

Officials said they are keeping an open mind about foul play, with veterinarians unable to find signs of physical attack, suggesting accidental drownings as a possible explanation. Singleton disputes that theory, noting that the pond is large and many cats dislike water. Residents describe the site as a chilling 'garden of horrors' and await more details as investigators determine the sequence of events. The investigation continues, and authorities have not yet provided a definitive cause.