Milwaukee police and health officials are investigating a disturbing photo that appears to show a man eating a rabbit while walking through a residential neighborhood on the city's East Side.
The image, which went viral on social media after being shared in a local Facebook group, shows a man holding a partially skinned rabbit carcass to his mouth as he walks down a sidewalk. The post suggests the incident occurred within the last several days.
Police Captain Robert Thiel confirmed the department received the photo and has notified the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Investigators are working to verify the image and determine the origins of the animal. No formal reports have been filed with police.
"The photo has been forwarded to the DNR because it may involve a hunting violation or animal abuse," Thiel said. He noted it's possible the rabbit was legally obtained and no crime occurred, but described the image as disturbing.
The City of Milwaukee Health Department is also reviewing the matter, though they have not received any formal complaints.
Authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward as they continue their investigation.