The state of New York is investigating the circumstances behind the raid on Mark Longo's home that resulted in the death of his internet-famous pet squirrel, P’Nut.
According to a report by the New York Post, New York's Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is conducting an internal investigation into the incident. The raid, reportedly involving around ten DEC agents, took place on October 30 and led to the seizure and euthanization of P’Nut and a raccoon, which were tested for rabies after the squirrel allegedly bit an agent.
“An internal investigation into the matter is ongoing, and we are reviewing internal policies and procedures to ensure we continue serving this core mission,” a DEC spokesperson said, according to the New York Post.
Despite public interest, state officials, including Governor Kathy Hochul's office, have withheld the results of the rabies tests and information about the status of the agent who was allegedly bitten. Longo, who operates an animal sanctuary, expressed frustration over the lack of transparency, saying, “You claimed rabies... but you haven’t made a public comment on it?”
“As a taxpayer, is my life and what you caused me not good enough to respond?” Longo asked.
The raid, led by investigator Joshia Crain, was conducted with a search warrant signed the previous day, citing suspicion that Longo and his wife were illegally housing a squirrel and a raccoon.
Longo's heartfelt story of rescuing P’Nut after its mother was hit by a car had previously garnered a significant social media following. When news broke of the raid that resulted in the confiscation and killing of the pet, state officials received immediate backlash online. Critics were quick to use the incident as an example of government overreach.
High-profile figures such as Elon Musk weighed in, with Musk posting on X, “Government overreach kidnapped an orphan squirrel and executed him.” Team Trump posted a tribute to P’Nut in a post on TikTok before the election, captioned “We will avenge you on Tuesday at the ballot box."
