A German tourist tragically lost his life after an encounter with a venomous cobra during a snake show. The snake reportedly slithered into his pants and bit his leg, as confirmed by local authorities.
The unusual incident took place in early April at a high-end resort in Egypt, according to information shared by the Bavarian State Police in Germany, who disclosed the details on Monday.
“During the performance by the snake charmer, one of the reptiles made its way into the trousers of a 57-year-old man, biting the German tourist on the leg,” officials reported.
The victim, whose name has not been disclosed, was enjoying a holiday with two relatives from Germany’s Unterallgäu region.
The snake charmer’s act was part of the hotel’s entertainment offerings in Hurghada, a renowned resort city along the Red Sea. This location is famed for its all-inclusive luxury experiences, as well as its proximity to desert adventures and aquatic activities.
Authorities noted that the show featured two snakes, which are believed to have been cobras.
Investigators indicated that it is not uncommon for performers to allow snakes to interact closely with audience members, as some of the snakes were reportedly placed around guests’ necks during the act.
However, during one segment of the performance, a snake reportedly bit the German tourist after crawling into his clothing.
“He subsequently exhibited clear symptoms of poisoning and required resuscitation,” officials said.
He reportedly died shortly after arriving at a local hospital.
The results of a toxicological examination are still pending, Bavarian police said.
The investigation is being handled by Germany’s Memmingen Criminal Police Inspectorate under the direction of the Memmingen Public Prosecutor’s Office (MPPO).
Cobras are known for being highly venomous snakes. Their bite can lead to rapid respiratory failure and paralysis without prompt medical treatment.
