Police Rescue Shop Owner From 20ft Python

A reptile shop owner is recovering in hospital after police officers pried off a 20ft (6m) python that was attempting to crush him.

Terry Wilkins, owner of Captive Born Reptiles in Newport, Kentucky, was not breathing when officers responded to a frantic 911 call on Monday.

Two officers working together managed to unravel the 125lb (57kg) snake by grabbing its head, Police Chief Tom Collins said.

Mr Wilkins resumed breathing before he was rushed to hospital. His condition later improved and he was talking to doctors.

Chief Collins said the python attacked Mr Wilkins while he was attempting to feed the reptile.

An unidentified woman who was inside the shop at the time dialled 911.

"He was feeding a snake and the snake wrapped around his neck! Please! Please!" the frantic woman can be heard screaming during the call.
"It's wrapped around his neck! His whole face! His face is covered! He's like a 20ft snake, I swear to God!"

Animal control officials are working with police to determine whether the python should be removed from the shop.