'Snake Salvation' reality star dies from snake bite

KENTUCKY (FoxNews.com) -- A Kentucky pastor who starred on National Geographic Channel's Snake Salvation — a reality show about Pentecostal preachers who handle serpents as part of their services — died Saturday after being bitten by one of the snakes.

Jamie Coots was found dead in his home around 10 p.m. Saturday, after being bitten in his church earlier in the day, police told a local TV station. He left the church before emergency workers arrived and refused medical attention for the wound.

Nearly a year ago, Coots pled guilty to violating exotic animals laws and was ordered to give up his vipers.

A spokesman for National Geographic told Fox News that the network had no plans to film another season, but planned to air a special about Coots.

"In following Pastor Coots ... we were constantly struck by his devout religious convictions despite the health and legal peril he often faced. Those risks were always worth it to him and his congregants as a means to demonstrate their unwavering faith," the network said in a statement. "We were honored to be allowed such unique access to Pastor Jamie and his congregation during the course of our show, and give context to his method of worship."

Cox Media Group