Shocking Close Encounter: Copperhead Snake Targets North Carolina Mayor’s Wife During Backyard BBQ

A mayor from North Carolina has shared the harrowing experience of his wife being bitten by a venomous copperhead snake, just as they were preparing to enjoy an outdoor dinner at their suburban residence.

Robert Burns, the Republican mayor of Monroe, recounted the unsettling incident that occurred on Wednesday while he was grilling salmon on their deck. His wife, Lauren, was unexpectedly bitten by the nearly four-foot-long snake just outside their Charlotte-area home.

“She was chatting with her dad on the phone, and suddenly I heard her say, ‘It’s not good, babe,’” Burns explained to Fox News on Tuesday. “I was confused, thinking, ‘What’s not good? The salmon is going to be fantastic. I’m not sure what you mean.’”

Lauren Burns had experienced a sudden, sharp pain in her lower leg. When Robert rushed to her side, he discovered two bleeding puncture wounds just above her ankle.

The mayor reported that their teenage son quickly ran outside to kill the snake, while he took Lauren to Atrium Health hospital in Matthews for medical attention.

Copperhead snakes are responsible for more venomous bites than any other snake type in the United States, according to the National Geographic. Though most people recover from a copperhead snake bite, they are extremely painful and can be fatal. 

Burns gave an update via X on his wife’s condition the day after she was attacked by one of the venomous vipers. ‘So… word has gotten out that my sweet wife was bitten by a large copperhead last night,’ Burns wrote on Thursday. 

‘When it happened, we rushed her to the ER. The staff at our local hospital were absolutely amazing. They were responsive, kind, very helpful, and overall fantastic.

Monroe Mayor Robert Burns has opened up about the moment his wife Lauren was bitten by a copperhead snake outside their suburban home. The North Carolina couple is pictured above

Republican Mayor Robert Burns said his wife Lauren was attacked by the four-foot reptile while he grilled salmon in their backyard of their home (pictured) in Monroe, just outside of Charlotte

Copperhead snakes are responsible for more venomous bites than any other snake type in the United States, according to the National Geographic. They are prevalent in dozens of states

‘Our biggest concern was the possibility of it not getting better and having to use the anti-venom, which carries its own risks, along with the potential for an extended stay. 

‘Fortunately, things stabilized, her vitals were steady, and they sent us home. We’re not out of the woods yet, though. 

‘She is in a lot of pain, probably more than I’ve ever seen her in. We’re a busy family with a lot going on right now, but we truly cherish your prayers and are grateful for all the support, texts, calls, emails, and well wishes. We love y’all. Keep praying.’

Three days later, Burns reassured his followers that Lauren was starting to recover thanks to their prayers.

‘My friends, PRAYER WORKS,’ he wrote on Sunday. ‘My sweet wife is doing remarkably well considering just two days ago how bad off she was. 

‘Yesterday she turned a corner in her pain and today she’s still very sore but is even better to a point she is actually up a little using crutches. 

Burns’ wife Lauren is still recovering from the venomous snake attack last Wednesday, he said

Monroe Mayor Robert Burns said his wife Lauren felt a sharp pain in her lower leg, and when he rushed to her aid he found ‘two puncture wounds that were bleeding right above her ankle

‘We are grateful for all the love and support. I count my blessings every day because of her. 

‘Seeing her like this the past couple days hasn’t been easy for our kids or myself but our family’s faith rests in the Great Healer. And HE’S ANSWERED. God bless each of you. Thank you.’

Copperhead snakes thrive in both rural and suburban areas like Monroe, a city located around 25 miles south-east of Charlotte, close to the South Carolina border. 

They are prevalent across dozens of states in the south and east, from southern New England to Texas and Florida. 

Usually around three foot in length, the stout snakes are gray or tan-colored, with bronze-hued heads and hourglass-shaped stripes. 

Copperhead snake bites are rarely fatal, but can be deadly if the victim is elderly or immuno-compromised. 

Burns said his wife was attacked by the four-foot reptile while he grilled salmon in their yard

If bitten by one of the reptiles, the CDC recommends taking a photograph of the snake for physicians to identify the bite type.

Medics also advise washing the bite gently with soap, and removing any watches and jewelry near the bite area, since it is likely to swell. 

The CDC warns against taking painkillers, applying ice or a tourniquet, or attempting to suck out the venom.