Never trust a rattlesnake

I would say this guy is an idiot, but he's dead. Perhaps his experience can be a lesson for all of us to avoid risky behavior:

GAINESVILLE, FL: In a career dedicated to public service, Putnam County Fire Marshal Joe Guidry was planning a leisurely life to begin next year with his retirement. On Friday afternoon, Guidry passed away at Shands at the University of Florida, surrounded by family and friends.

Guidry spent his final days fighting for his life after a deed for a neighbor turned tragic.

The 54-year-old fire marshal, an organ donor, died from complications of a snakebite wound after lapsing into unconsciousness early Friday morning.

You won't believe how it happened:

Officials said 54-year-old Putnam County Fire Marshal Joe Guidry shot the 5-foot snake multiple times and thought it was close to death or dead. When he reached out to grab the snake, he was bitten on his right hand.

Guidry had also worked as a firefighter in Clay and Collier counties and an emergency medical technician in St. Johns County.

Well.

Complete story here: Snake bite is deadly for Putnam County official