School Raising Money for Snakebite Victim

Howe Hall AIMS is raising money for one of its students who was recently bitten by a rattlesnake at Wannamaker County Park. 

Zach Szalas, 8, is currently listed in serious condition at the Medical University of South Carolina. He reportedly walked off the path last week at the heavily wooded park and stepped on the snake.

School principal Christopher Swetckie said his voicemail was full Monday with parents ready to offer support.

"As a school, everyone has reached out to help," he said. "We wanted to have the biggest impact we could."

Beginning Wednesday morning, those interested in donating toward Zach's treatment and recovery can make a donation at any First Federal branch. The account is titled "The Fund For Zach Szalas."

Live 5 News spoke with Zach's aunt, Ansley Crabtree, who was with him at the park.

She said Zach ran off the path and stepped on the rattlesnake. It bit him twice in the leg. Crabtree said he immediately began to lose consciousness and had trouble breathing.

"This whole thing has been surreal because you only see these things in movies," Crabtree said.