A Wimauma teen is hospitalized at Tampa General Hospital after he was bit on the face by a cottonmouth snake on Saturday night. Cottonmouth snakes are also known as water moccasins.
Investigators say Austin Hatfield, 18, had captured the snake several days earlier, put it in a pillowcase and kept the pillowcase on his bed.
At some point on Saturday night, the snake escaped and the teen grabbed it close to his chest. The snake then bit him in the face, according to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Spokesperson Gary Morse.
Emergency crews responded to the home at about 11:45 p.m. and transported Hatfield to TGH where the teen is in good condition.
The snake was euthanized and was brought to TGH for identification.
FWC is investigating because of the injury and it is against the law to possess a venomous snake without a permit.
No charges have been filed.
