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.

The controversy over Peanut, the pet squirrel and social media sensation seized by the state Department of Environmental Conservation and euthanized last week, has raised questions about who can and should handle wildlife in New York.

According to the DEC and the Chemung County Department of Health, Fred and Peanut were euthanized after a person involved with the investigation was bitten by Peanut.

Peanut's owner Mark Longo told NewsNation host Chris Cuomo that he is "appalled" that New York uses resources to kill a raccoon and squirrel.

Peanut the Squirrel was taken from his Elmira, NY, home Wednesday by officials from the Department of Environmental Conservation, who served a warrant to Peanut’s guardians after receiving complaints of “unlawfully possessed” animals, according to the post.

Image via Instagram The death of Peanut the Squirrel occurred at an odd time in America — right before the presidential election. As a result, several conservative figures have latched onto the animal's euthanization as proof of government oversight.