Overview

• The unidentified hiker was bitten on August 8 after reportedly picking up a timber rattlesnake while hiking Savage Gulf State Park and later died at a hospital despite on-site CPR.
• Grundy County Emergency Management Agency has confirmed the fatality and cites witness reports in identifying the suspected timber rattlesnake species.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 7,000–8,000 venomous snakebites occur annually in the U.S., with roughly five resulting deaths each year.
• Experts note that commercial snakebite kits provide no proven benefit and advise keeping the bitten limb immobilized and elevated before obtaining antivenom at a hospital.
• No new investigations or policy changes have been announced, but state park officials have reiterated existing wildlife safety guidance for outdoor enthusiasts.