Official statements from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

Peanut the Social Media Squirrel and Fred the Raccoon Euthanized by NY Authorities; Rabies Tests Negative

Nov 13, 2024, 12:45 PM

Chemung County officials held a press conference to discuss the seizure and euthanasia of Peanut the squirrel and Fred the raccoon from a Pine City home on October 30. Peanut, a social media star with tens of thousands of followers on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, was rescued by his owner Mark Longo after witnessing the squirrel's mother get hit by a car in New York City over seven years ago. The animals were euthanized so they could be tested for rabies after Peanut reportedly bit a worker involved in the investigation. On Tuesday, the rabies test results came back negative for both animals, as announced by the Chemung County Executive's Office. The union representing New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) officers stated that the officers involved in executing the warrant did not make the decision to euthanize the animals and has asked the public to stop sending threats to DEC employees and offices. Mark Longo has publicly expressed frustration, stating, "You need to come up with an explanation as to why you murdered these animals," and is considering legal action to seek answers and justice for his pet. It was revealed that the decision to euthanize the animals was made days before the seizure.