An 8 year old should not be the only one responsible for keeping and caring for a snake. The parents should be the sole responsible ones for the snake and teach their child what it takes to be a responsible pet owner and all the work and money it cost to keep one. Sorry to hear that the snake died, but I don't know anyone on here that will just give an 8 year old a pet and go on with their marry way.
Like Adam said above, do the parents know anything about keeping a snake? etc etc.... Also do they have a herp vet on hand if another snake they get, gets sick instead of just letting it suffer and die? I would not get a 8 year old or a new herp owner a hatching BP. Sometimes it's better to start off with a older one who doesn't have any issues.
