Billionaire and X owner Elon Musk has voiced his outrage over the controversial euthanization of Peanut, a popular rescue squirrel known for his viral online presence.

In a series of posts on X, Musk criticized government action, saying, “Government overreach kidnapped an orphan squirrel and executed him.”

In an earlier post, Musk expressed hope that former President Donald Trump would act on behalf of animals, writing, “Trump will save the squirrels. RIP P’Nut.”

The outcry centers on Peanut, a seven-year-old gray squirrel cherished by social media audiences on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

According to New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Peanut was seized and euthanized, alongside a raccoon named Fred, after being taken from the home of their guardian, Mark Longo, in Pine City.

The state claimed this was necessary to test for rabies after an anonymous tip led to the animals’ removal.

Longo, who founded “P’Nut’s Freedom Farm,” an animal rescue operation, described Peanut as the best companion he had ever had.

Fighting back tears, Longo shared an emotional tribute: “RIP MY BEST FRIEND. Thank you for the best 7 years of my life. Thank you for bringing so much joy to us and the world. I’m sorry I failed you but thank you for everything.”

Longo, supported by his girlfriend, took to social media to memorialize Peanut and asked followers for financial assistance for a potential legal battle and support for his nonprofit.

A GoFundMe campaign in Peanut’s name has already surpassed $42,000.

The DEC stated that the confiscation was prompted by anonymous complaints and that Peanut bit one of the officers during the seizure.

Their statement read, “To test for rabies, both animals were euthanized. The animals are being tested for rabies, and anyone who has been in contact with them is strongly encouraged to consult their physician.”

Peanut’s story began when Longo, originally from Connecticut, rescued the squirrel after witnessing its mother hit by a car.

The affectionate animal became an online sensation, inspiring Longo to move to upstate New York and establish his animal sanctuary.