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A restaurant in Louisiana has landed in hot water after police uncovered a deer carcass stored with food meant for patrons, sparking investigations by several agencies.
In Pineville, Louisiana, a social media video went viral showing what appeared to be restaurant employees skinning a deer. This alarming footage quickly caught the attention of local authorities, prompting an investigation.
The Pineville Police Department released a statement detailing their response on April 21. A complaint had been lodged about an employee reportedly skinning a dead animal behind the restaurant premises.
Upon their arrival, officers discovered evidence confirming that the animal in question was a deer. According to police reports, the deer had been retrieved from the roadside and transported back to the eatery.
Further investigation revealed that the deer carcass had been placed in a freezer, together with other food items. It was alleged that these items were intended for customer consumption, raising significant health and safety concerns.
Police contacted the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the Louisiana Department of Health. Both departments are investigating.Â
No arrests or charges have been announced as of Saturday, April 25.Â
The restaurant posted a note to their front door regarding the investigation, according to KALB.
“We apologize for the recent incident. The item involved was never intended to be served to customers, but it was improperly stored. It has been fully cleaned and sanitized. We are cooperating with health authorities and have corrected our procedures to ensure this does not happen again. Thank you for your understanding.”
While eating deer is not uncommon in Louisiana, there are specific rules about roadkill. In Louisiana, the collection or harvesting of roadkill is illegal unless you have permission from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.