http://www.wishtv.com/global/story.asp?s=5364548

Southern Indiana Man Found Dead after Handling Python

An autopsy found 23-year-old Patrick Von Allmen was in fact squeezed to death by his 14-foot pet Python. Indiana Conservation officers say the autopsy performed Tuesday morning, determined his death was caused by asphyxiation around the neck and chest.

Von Allmen of Lanesville Indiana was found Monday morning lying on the floor of a shed located behind his residence by a family member. Von Allmen had stated to family members that he was going to treat the snake for a medical condition before entering the building. He had been in the shed for about three hours before he was discovered lying unresponsive with the Python free from confinement nearby.

The family had obtained the snake five months ago as a pet. Patrick Von Allmen was, according to family members, well versed with snakes and had 10 to 12 years of experience handling reptiles. The Python was recaptured and retained by the victim's family.

Indiana Conservation Officers state that the 14 foot Reticulated Python was possessed legally under current Indiana Law.

-- Information from a press release from the Indiana Conservation Office