All could have been averted if the cat's owner had not let the cat outside. I have indoor only cats since we moved to an area where coyotes are on the prowl.
On a bright note: the local coyotes did get rid of the pesky rabbits ruining my yard! :D
We live in an old farmhouse on 80 acres. The cats outside kill smaller pests and keep them out of the house. Coyotes provide no useful purpose.