Not to excuse what this guy did, but grief can really mess you up mentally. I came close to really screwing up my life and family a few years back after my mom passed away. I didn't realize how badly I was affected. Fortunately my husband and some close friends encouraged me to get help before my life became a complete mess. It looks like this guy lived alone, so without support from others he probably just fell apart. Damned shame the snakes had to suffer also.