Okay, this story is just too off the wall.
From another forum of shooters in Colorado posted by one of their members.

The Jefferson County coroner has confirmed that a 34-year-old Colorado man died this month, days after being bitten by one of his two pet Gila monsters.

"I think this case highlights that any venomous animals should be respected," said Dr. Nick Brandehoff...

According to several experts involved in the Lakewood case, the man -- who has not been identified -- owned two pet Gila monsters and was bitten by one of them on Feb. 12. It was a juvenile and about 12 inches long. The owner was hospitalized and died the Friday leading into the Presidents Day holiday weekend -- four days after the animal bit him.

He told CBS News Colorado it is illegal to own Gila monsters in Colorado without a license. Harper said the victim also owned tarantulas which are not illegal to own.


I have never understood keeping reptiles as "pets".

They don't come when you call them, they don't play fetch and I have never seen a lizard pee itself with excitement when it's owner gets home.