A famous Youtuber nicknamed the Steve Irwin of South Africa died after being bitten by a poisonous snake.
Snake handler Graham ‘Dingo’ Dinkelman died last Saturday after complications from a cobra bite.
The father-of-three, from Pietermaritzburg, was bitten by the snake about a month ago and went into anaphylactic shock after having an allergic reaction to the venom.
Dingo’s YouTube channel is full of videos of him handling dangerous reptiles, such as cobras, black mambas, vipers, pythons and crocodiles.
His wife Kirsty said he walked into a induced coma while being treated in a hospital intensive care unit.
While under heavy sedatives his body was expected to recover, but Kirsty later confirmed the tragic news of his death.
Tributes have been pouring in for Dingo, with his wife Kirsty saying: ‘Dingo fought incredibly hard during this very difficult period.
‘We know you were fighting to be here with us and we are very grateful for that.
Snake handler Graham ‘Dingo’ Dinkelman died last Saturday after complications from a cobra bite (pictured)
The father-of-three, from Pietermaritzburg, was bitten by the snake about a month ago and went into anaphylactic shock after having an allergic reaction to the venom.
“Sadly, despite his strength and resilience, my beloved husband passed away peacefully today, surrounded by his family.”
Kirsty thanked well-wishers for their support and said: “Today (Saturday) marks one month since the incident and we have experienced so much comfort and love thanks to your messages and prayers from around the world.”
Dingo became popular for his daring rescues of dangerous reptiles and amassed more than 100,000 subscribers on YouTube and more than 600,000 fans on Instagram.
Commenting on his latest video, Dingo’s followers paid tribute to a ‘joyful’ and ‘fun’ man who had a genuine passion for animals.
One user said: ‘I’m so devastated! I’ve been watching Dingo for years. Her passion for animals and her personality was an absolute gift to see. I can’t believe he’s gone. First Brian, now Dingo.
Dingo’s YouTube channel is full of videos of him handling dangerous reptiles, such as cobras, black mambas, vipers, pythons and crocodiles.
A video showed Dingo handling a dangerous cobra about a month ago; the video remains on his YouTube channel.
‘They were both the reason I overcame my fear of snakes and now keep them as pets.
‘I know those two legends are up there together, and Dingo is back with his father.
‘My heart is absolutely broken for Kirsty and the children. Rip Dingo, we will always miss you!’
Another person said: ‘RIP Legend! Their knowledge and enthusiasm really helped me develop a love and respect for snakes. I’ll miss your videos on my feed.’
‘One of the most incredible people I have had the pleasure of knowing.
‘The world has just suffered an incredible loss. A truly great soul. His impact and legacy will endure for generations to come. But he went to rest on his way to you.
“Prayers for Kirsty and the kids,” said another.