Yahoo News Snake handler, 31, found dead with ‘serious injuries next to pet python'
A snake handler has been found dead in his home just yards away from his pet python, it has been reported.
Experienced handler Dan Brandon, 31, was found in his bedroom at his home in Church Crookham, Hampshire, where he lived with his parents and his array of exotic pets.
One of his snakes was found slithering near his body, it was reported.
He is said to have suffered ‘serious injuries’.
Mr Brandon had previously posted images of his pets, including a large Burmese python draped over his body, on his social media accounts.
Police are trying to establish the cause of death.
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A source told The Sun newspaper: ‘It is under investigation whether the snake was involved. The death is in an investigation stage between natural causes and an inquest.
‘Investigators are waiting for the full toxicology results and reports to come back from a post-mortem. Depending on the results, an inquest may be opened.’
A spokesman for Hampshire Police said: ‘We were called to an address in Church Crookham. A 31-year-old man had suffered serious injuries and died at the scene.
‘The death is not being treated as suspicious at this stage. A file will be prepared for the coroner.’
A spokesperson for Surrey and Hampshire Reptile Rescue said: ‘There’s never been a case of a python killing someone in Britain before. They only kill what they eat.’
A JustGiving page has been set up in memory of Mr Brandon to raise money for the charity World Wide Fund for Nature.
It said: ‘He was obsessed with snakes, spiders, birds and all wildlife. We will all miss you so much.’
