As you say, it is a sad sign of the times.
On all pet tags I have fitted to my animals I only put my phone number and "If found injured - vet bills will be paid." I have never had to test if this is heeded ... but it may just save one of their lives one day.
My husband has always said that of course anyone who found an injured animal would take it to a vet. I can now show him that even that is no garuntee of treatment. What a disturbing and appalling thing to happen.