A man has died after being bitten by a venomous snake while hiking in a Tennessee state park. The incident occurred on August 8 at Savage Gulf State Park, located about 60 miles northwest of Chattanooga. The victim, whose identity has not been released, was approximately half a mile down a trailhead at 55th Avenue in Gruetli-Laager when first responders arrived shortly after being dispatched around 12:30 p.m.

Matthew Griffith, the director of the Grundy County Emergency Management Agency, reported that paramedics performed CPR on the hiker before he was transported to a hospital, where he later died. A witness informed first responders that the hiker had picked up the snake, believed to be a Timber rattlesnake, and was bitten on the hand.

The Timber rattlesnake is the largest and most dangerous of the four venomous snake species found in Tennessee. According to the state's Wildlife Resource Agency, these snakes can grow between 3 and 5 feet long and typically inhabit mature, heavily wooded forests with rocky hillsides. Although they are considered "more docile" than other rattlesnake species, they may remain coiled or motionless when encountered.

Griffith mentioned that the hiker might have experienced an allergic reaction to the snake bite, but the exact cause of death has not yet been confirmed. He expressed condolences, stating, "The family of the individual will be in our thoughts and prayers."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 7,000 to 8,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes each year in the United States. Of those, about five fatalities occur annually, although more lives could be lost without prompt medical attention.

The CDC advises that snake bite victims should always seek medical care. While waiting for help, they should remove any rings or bracelets to accommodate swelling and wash the bite area with soap and water. The bite should be covered with a clean, dry dressing, and the leading edge of any swelling should be marked on the skin with the time noted.

The CDC warns against attempting to suck out venom, using a tourniquet, applying ice, or submerging the bite in water. Griffith emphasized the importance of remaining calm if encountering a snake and advised hikers to carry first aid supplies and be aware of wildlife dangers while outdoors.