Burned cat in a pan of veggies perplexes police

A car dealer found a charred cat in a pan of rice and vegetables outside of his business, authorities said.

The cat was found Wednesday outside Roy's Cars and RVs in Ogden, about 31 miles north of Salt Lake City.

"There were green bell peppers and sliced onions, all on a bed of rice," said Ogden Police Lt. David Tarran. "It looked just like the cat had been cooked."

Police did not know whether the incident was a prank or was directed at someone at the car dealership. Investigators also are trying to determine whether the cat was alive or dead when it was mutilated. That will determine if charges can be pursued.