Maumelle High School student finds deadly snake inside helmet during football practice
The high school student had worn the helmet for about an hour before he felt something unusual.
A high school student has had a lucky escape after a deadly snake was found inside the football helmet he had been wearing for about an hour.
On August 6, the Maumelle High School student was at football practice in Arkansas when he felt something unusual.
Athletic director at the school, Kirk Horton, told KARK News that staff were stunned when the student showed them his helmet after wearing it for about an hour.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Inside was a small, two-foot snake.
“It really was just shock and disbelief,” he said.
“I’ve got a better shot at winning the lottery than seeing this in my ten years.”
It was initially believed the snake was a copperhead, but when the Maumelle Animal Services arrived, it was revealed that it was actually a cottonmouth snake.
Cottonmouths are the second deadliest snake in Arkansas behind the rattlesnake.
Maumelle Animal Services director Chris Davis told local television outlet WHSV3 that it was believed the player was very lucky.
“If this snake would’ve bit the child, it probably would’ve been very fatal,” he said.
He said the snake was difficult to remove because it had nestled itself into the padding inside the helmet.
The cottonmouth snake was relocated.
Mr Davis said this removal was a first for him.
“I’ve removed a snake out of a car vent, in the engine, purses, backpacks. In a helmet? Never,” he said.
“It was very unreal. You had to kind of be there and take pictures to say this was real.”
On Facebook, the Maumelle Animal Shelter wrote that they responded to “an unusual situation” at the school.
“A student put on his helmet, only to discover that a venomous snake had taken up residence inside,” the post read.
“Thankfully, everyone is OK, but this is an important reminder that snakes and other critters can find their way into dark, enclosed spaces—especially helmets, shoes, bags, boxes, and other items that are left outside or sitting undisturbed.
“Before putting on your helmet, shoes, gloves, or any outdoor gear, always give it a quick check first. It only takes a few seconds and could prevent a very scary encounter—or worse.
“Stay safe, stay alert, and remember: always check before you put it on!”
The football player finished the training session wearing a different helmet.
