Full Breakdown
Deer Carcass Found in Pineville Chinese Restaurant’s Freezer Triggers Health and Wildlife Investigation
4/25/2026, 10:35:54 AM
Freezer Discovery: Deer Carcass Found at China Queen
On April 21, Pineville police responded to a tip from a viral post showing individuals skinning an animal behind a restaurant. Officers entered China Queen at 2900 Cottingham Expressway and found a deer carcass, believed to be roadkill, in a freezer with food items.
Background & Context: Viral Post and Prior Health Violations
A Facebook post on April 22 claimed an employee was seen skinning a dead animal; the post has been removed. Records show China Queen Buffet received an inspection on April 1, citing violations: improper food marking, chemicals stored with food, and reuse of single-use items.
Official Statements & Responses
Police confirmed deer was found in the freezer and directed health-code questions to LDWF and LDH, though LDH has not commented. LDWF warned that storing undeclared meat above 40 °F encourages bacterial growth; roadkill possession is a Class Four violation with $400–$950 fines and up to 120 days imprisonment. The restaurant apologized, saying the carcass was never intended for service and that the area has been cleaned, sanitized, and revised.
Criticism & Opposition
Members and health advocates fear bacterial contamination from the roadkill, especially given the restaurant’s history of critical health violations. Critics call the incident evidence of systemic food-safety lapses.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The viral video that prompted police response has been removed, leaving no visual verification. Police have not confirmed whether the deer meat was intended for customers, and the exact collection time remains unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “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.” — China Queen Management
- “Illegal possession of a deer, which would be possession of roadkill, essentially, is a class four violation in Louisiana.” — Bradley Breland, Permits Coordinator, LDWF
- “PPD said all questions about wildlife violations or health codes should be directed to the LDWF and LDH, respectively.” — Pineville Police Department
What's Next
LDWF and LDH will continue investigations. Depending on findings, the restaurant could face fines, license sanctions, or criminal prosecution, and further health inspections are planned.
