Dingo Dinkelman, YouTuber Known As South Africa’s Steve Irwin, Dies After Snake Bite

A YouTube reptile handler known as South Africa’s Steve Irwin has passed away weeks after suffering a venomous snake bite. Graham “Dingo” Dinkelman died on Oct. 26 and his wife, Kirsty, confirmed the sad news on social media, sharing in a statement that he was surrounded by family in his final moments and had spent the month after the incident fighting “incredibly hard” to survive. “His presence has brought so much warmth, love, passion and laughter to our lives, as well as all of those who knew him, loved him and supported him. We love you Dingo and we will always celebrate your incredible impact on each of our lives,” the message continued. Dingo, who gained an online following for his videos featuring alligators, insects and various snakes including cobras, anacondas and black mambas. Kirsty previously shared on Dingo’s Instagram account that he had gone into anaphylactic shock after the bite due to a venom allergy and was placed in a medically induced coma. Prior to his death, she last updated fans on Oct. 9 to share that he was still in the ICU. Dingo and Kirsty shared three young children and the family appeared by his side in multiple videos over the years. The conservationist’s last YouTube segment was posted in late August and featured his son assisting him with a cobra operation.