A father of two died tragically on Saturday after a suspected venomous snake bite on private property in Queensland, Australia, as his wife watched terrifyingly as she waited for paramedics to arrive.
According to reports, the victim, whose identity has not been released, suffered a bite to the hand in Lockyer Valley, located about 50 kilometers from Brisbane, before 10:00 am (local time).
The man, in his 60s, reportedly died while his wife watched before paramedics arrived, the New York Post reported.
In statements offered to the Courier Mail, the victim’s neighbor named Michelle Vedredi said she received several calls and messages from family and friends after the tragic episode.
“They asked me if I was okay because the helicopter had been there and there were four ambulances and police cars,” Ms. Vedredi said. “Someone told me that he could hear his wife screaming through the fence for help before the ambulances arrived.”
The neighbor added that the father had had pythons before, and was familiar with handling snakes.
Although the species of the snake has not been confirmed following a toxicology report, it is believed to be an eastern brown (Pseudonaja textilis).
Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers contractor Heather McMurray said Queensland’s snake season is in full swing, running from October to April.
“The heat and humidity are certainly bringing out (snakes) – pythons love humidity and brown snakes love hot, dry days,” he added.
The police are expected to prepare a report for the coroner. The man’s death will not be treated as suspicious.