The Pineville Police Department is investigating a viral social media incident involving the handling of a deer carcass behind a local restaurant.

According to authorities, officers were dispatched April 21 to the 2900 block of Cottingham Expressway after receiving a complaint that a restaurant employee was seen skinning a dead animal.

Upon arrival, officers observed evidence indicating the animal was a deer. It was reported the deer had been collected after being found deceased along the roadside.

During the investigation, officers discovered the deer carcass stored in a freezer alongside other food items that were allegedly intended to be served to customers.

Due to the circumstances, police contacted the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the Louisiana Department of Health. Representatives from both agencies responded and are handling their respective investigations into potential wildlife and health code violations.

Police officials said any further questions regarding violations or health concerns should be directed to those agencies as the investigation continues.

Social Media Post: Chinese restaurant between Super1 and TjMax in Pineville skinning roadkill behind the restaurant yesterday. They found the skin and head in dumpster outback. Y’all might wanna bring a DNA kit to these restaurants to check the status of meat you are eating from these places