Internet-famous Peanut the squirrel was euthanized after NY wildlife officials seized him from his owner’s home, sparking widespread outrage and forcing state offices to close amid bomb threats. Learn what led to the viral pet’s controversial death.

A man who took in an orphaned squirrel and made it a social media star vowed Saturday that New York state’s decision to seize and euthanize the animal “won’t go unheard.”

Peanut the squirrel and Fred the raccoon were confiscated and euthanized that week, here’s how the incident became political.

In addition to his OnlyFans, Longo, 34, runs a an animal refuge in Pine City, New York, a rural town near the Pennsylvania border. P'Nuts Freedom Farm Animal Sanctuary was home to Longo, Peanut, a rescued raccoon named Fred, and Longo's wife, Daniela.

This story was updated to add a statement from the DEC. PINE CITY, N.Y. (WETM) — A popular pet squirrel from the Elmira area who inspired his owner to start an animal sanctuary was seized by the DEC on Wednesday morning.

The owners of Peanut the Squirrel have spoken out after the pet was seized and euthanized by authorities. Mark and Daniela Longo suspect someone jealous of their success may have called the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to have the animal removed from their sanctuary.

If you’re active on social media, you may have come across Peanut the squirrel, a beloved pet who quickly rose to internet fame along with his dad, Mark Longo. Mark has spent the last seven years sharing his adventures with Peanut with the world under the Instagram handle @peanut_the_squirrel12.