Snake-handler pastor dies from rattlesnake bite

A snake-handling pastor who appeared on a television reality show has died after being bitten during a weekend church service in Kentucky.

Jamie Coots was handling a rattlesnake at his Full Gospel Tabernacle in Jesus Name Church in Middlesboro when he was bitten on the hand on Saturday night, fellow preacher Cody Winn told WBIR-TV.

After the bite, Mr Coots – who appeared on National Geographic’s Snake Salvation show — dropped the snakes but then picked them back up and continued. Within minutes, Mr Winn said Mr Coots headed to the bathroom.