Rattlesnake Bite Venom Killed Triathlete Hiker: JeffCo Coroner

GOLDEN, CO -- UPDATED: A man hiking the Mt. Galbraith Park trail in Golden Saturday was bitten by a rattlesnake and died a few hours later, the Jefferson Co. Coroner's office announced Sunday. Colorado Ironman Triathlete Daniel Hohs, 31, and a friend were hiking about one mile from the trail head when the snake bit Hohs on the ankle. His friend called first responders for help around 12:40 p.m. According to reports, rescuers found Hohs alert and talking, but he went into cardiac arrest. He was taken to Lakewood's St. Anthony Hospital and was declared dead. The coroner's office completed an autopsy, but said in a statement that further investigation will determine the cause and manner of death.

Hohs was computer software consultant and a native of Mundelein, Illinois. He had been living in Steamboat Springs training for endurance sports and had recently moved to Golden. Hohs completed his first the Ironman Triathlon in Louisville, Kentucky in 2014, according to his website www.activeperformance.org. Hohs said he used endurance sports to manage his bi-poliar disorder, which was diagnosed in college.

"Endurance sports have provided me with the motivation to improve all aspects of my life, deeply reflect on who I am, and most importantly, learn that I can do what I once thought was impossible," he wrote in 2014. "My alternative brain chemistry is not a disorder and it is not an illness; it is a unique part of me that gives me strength and individuality in so many ways."

Watch a video Hohs made for National Day Without Stigma in 2014:

"I am speaking for those who hide from social stigma," Hohs wrote. "I find empowerment in my own individuality and have created strength from what is labeled as a disorder."

Funeral arrangements have not been set for Hohs.

The incident brought focus on the danger rattlesnakes pose to hikers along the Front Range.

Jefferson Co. offered these tips if you encounter a rattlesnake while hiking:

Rattlesnakes are common in Open Space parks and visitors should be prepared and know what to do should they come across one.

What to Understand

• Prairie Rattlesnakes are the species found in Colorado.
• Rattlesnakes are more active and out sunning themselves on the trail in the mornings and evenings during the summer. During the heat of the summer mid-day, they are less likely to be out.
• Rattlesnakes want nothing to do with us and will leave the area if given the opportunity and space.
• Rattlesnakes will bite a human only when surprised or if it cannot get away.
• Rattlesnakes are often in high grass, making it important to leash dogs and keep them on trail.

If You See a Rattlesnake on a Trail:

• Stop and do not approach the snake.
• Stomp your feet hard on the trail; the vibrations will often annoy them and encourage them to move off the trail.
• Slowly wave your arms and talk; encouraging the snake to move along.
• Be patient and wait for the snake to move on.

If You Are Bitten by a Rattlesnake:

• Immediately move away from the snake.
• Remove any jewelry from the bitten area that might constrict as it swells.
• Immobilize the limb if possible.
• Stay calm and call 911.
• If you are in an area without cell signal, slowly and calmly walk to where you can make a call.

Image: Pixabay