The dead animals were found Monday by a bus driver taking his afternoon break.
A veterinarian who examined the kittens, which were about 6 to 8 weeks old, says they probably died of hypothermia from the recent cold and rainy weather.
Animal control officers found an empty, upside-down food bowl, along with urine and feces inside the pet carrier.
Police tell The Press of Atlantic City that the animals had no visible signs of injury, but were soaking wet.
No video surveillance footage of the parking lot could be found.
---
Information from: The Press of Atlantic City