Hiker dies after timber rattlesnake bite at Savage Gulf State Park

A hiker died in Savage Gulf State Park after being bitten by a timber rattlesnake when witnesses say the man picked up the snake along a trail. Emergency personnel responded around 12:30 p.m. local time on Friday, and the hiker was transported to a hospital where he later died. Officials have not released the official cause of death, and the identity of the hiker has not been publicly released as the investigation continues.

Witnesses told responders that the hiker had picked up the rattlesnake, which bit him on the hand. A coordinated response involving fire and rescue crews, emergency medical services, and park rangers followed, with CPR started at the scene and continued after the man was transported to a nearby hospital. The hiker was reported to be about a half mile down the trail when first responders arrived. Family members were in the public’s thoughts, according to officials, who urged calm and practical precautions for those enjoying outdoor recreation in wildlife habitats.

Timber rattlesnakes are among Tennessee’s venomous species and are described as the largest and most dangerous of the four venomous snakes in the state. They can reach lengths of three to five feet...