Winder man killed by rattlesnake bite

Rupert regained consciousness long enough to climb onto the four-wheeler with his grandson, but then collapsed again.

Rupert’s grandson attempted to drive Rupert out of the woods, but, before they could get out, Rupert lost consciousness and fell off the four-wheeler.

Rupert’s son and grandson carried Rupert out of the woods and went to a neighbor’s house to call 911.

By the time medics arrived at 7:44 a.m., Rupert was in full cardiac arrest. He was pronounced dead an hour later at Wills Memorial Hospital.

Matthews said he believes Rupert was most likely bitten by a pygmy rattlesnake based on the size of the bite mark.

According to Matthews, such bites are usually not fatal unless the individual has an underlying medical condition. Rupert had a history of mild hypertension, but no other contributing causes have been identified.

Matthews said Rupert’s grandson did an extraordinary job in trying to save his grandfather.

“The little boy is definitely a hero in our book,” Matthews said.