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A criminal investigation is currently underway at a franchise Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen restaurant in Missouri where a racist sign was posted in the window.

The sign announced the restaurant was under new management and it reserves the “right to refuse service to white people.”

“This restaurant is under new management and will reserve the right to refuse service to white people.

We apologize for any inconvenience.

Signed, General Manager, Mason.”

Local news reporter Russell Kinsaul took a photo of the sign and posted it on his Facebook page, where it spread quickly.

White customers are scarcely seen in Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen restaurants which primarily serve Black communities.

After the sign went viral, it was removed from the window and replaced with another sign that read: “Sorry For The Inconvenience. We’re Closed For The Day We Will Be Back Tomorrow.”

Popeyes corporate office issued a statement that read:

“We have been made aware of the situation and are investigating the matter immediately. This type of behavior does not align with our brand values and we take such allegations very seriously. The franchise is cooperating with local authorities regarding this ongoing investigation.”

According to Fox affiliate KTVI-TV in St. Louis, local police believe someone may have affixed the sign to the window “unbeknownst to the business”.