On November 25, 2024, Beau Horan, a 16-year-old from Wurdong Heights, Queensland, Australia, suffered a bite from a brown snake while working in his family’s backyard. Initially, Beau thought he had just scratched his foot, but his sister quickly noticed a retreating brown snake.

After the incident, Beau experienced sudden illness, collapsed indoors, and received head injuries from hitting a wall and floor tiles.

“I was at work when it happened, and his sister and stepdad were with him. I was on the phone with his stepdad when he collapsed,” his mother, Bek Eddy, said in an interview with Daily Mail Australia.

Paramedics who arrived at the scene identified a snake bite on the back of Beau’s foot. “They called an ambulance, and after assessing him, he was rushed to the hospital, where he was given antivenom,” his mother further explained.

Beau was put into a coma that same night. When a severe brain bleed was detected, he was airlifted to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and placed on life support.

On Wednesday evening, the family had to make the painful decision to withdraw life support. They stayed by his side until the end.

Known for his kindness and aspiration to become a teacher, Beau’s death has deeply impacted his community. Shaun Connolly, a family friend, described Beau as a “beloved and joyful young man.” A GoFundMe campaign started to help with medical and funeral costs has already surpassed $22,000, demonstrating the community’s support.

The eastern brown snake (Pseudonaja textilis) is common in eastern and central Australia and can be found in both rural and urban settings, including residential backyards. This species, known for its potent venom, is responsible for approximately 60% of human snake bite deaths in Australia.

The venom of this snake contains strong neurotoxins and procoagulants, which can interrupt blood clotting, cause severe internal bleeding and paralysis, and, in some instances, cardiac arrest. The initial bite can often be painless and hard to notice, leading to delayed treatment.

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for snake awareness and safety, particularly in areas where venomous snakes are prevalent. Precautions such as wearing protective gear like boots and long pants when working outdoors and maintaining clean yards to reduce snake habitats are encouraged.

It is also crucial to seek help from licensed snake catchers for snake removal and to educate oneself on first aid for snake bites. In case of a snake bite, remaining calm to slow the venom spread, applying a pressure immobilization bandage, and keeping the affected limb still are important steps.

Immediate contact with emergency services is crucial for effective treatment. Public education and adherence to these safety measures are key to preventing similar tragedies in the future.