A tragic incident involving a rattlesnake bite has left a hiker dead in Tennessee’s Savage Gulf State Park, officials confirmed. Matthew Griffith of the Grundy County Emergency Management Agency said a Timber rattlesnake, the largest and most dangerous of Tennessee’s four venomous snakes, is believed to have been responsible.
“According to witnesses the hiker had picked the Rattlesnake up resulting in a bite to his hand,” Griffith stated. The victim was about a half-mile from a trailhead when emergency crews arrived and began CPR. He was transported to a hospital, where he “later succumbed to his injuries.” Authorities believe the man may have suffered an allergic reaction, but the official cause of death has not yet been determined.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency describes Timber rattlesnakes as heavy-bodied, 3-5 feet in length, with triangular heads, vertical pupils, and rattles at the tail. Their venom, injected through sharp fangs, quickly incapacitates prey.
Griffith urged hikers to carry first aid supplies and respect wildlife. “If you encounter a snake, simply remain calm and do not attempt to handle it. If bitten, seek immediate medical attention,” he advised. He also noted it remains unclear why the hiker decided to pick up the snake.
“The family of the individual will be in our thoughts and prayers,” Griffith said, underscoring the community’s grief over the avoidable tragedy.
