Cherokee Boy Recognized For Saving Dad's Life

A Cherokee County boy was recently recognized for helping save his father's life.

Shane Newton and his son Grant, 9, on Friday visited the Cherokee County Public Safety headquarters to thank those who helped save his life after he was bitten by a rattlesnake on Nov. 8.

Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services and Cherokee County E-911 presented Grant with a certificate recognizing him for his quick actions and heroic efforts in saving his father's life. 

The Newtons were hiking on private property on a mountain near Lake Arrowhead Golf Course near Waleska when he was bitten by the snake. 

The Lake Arrowhead community is located in the northwest corner of Cherokee County. 

Newton called Cherokee County E-911 to report the incident and noted to the dispatcher he was "shaking pretty bad" after the bite.

Cherokee County volunteers were dispatched to the area to help search for Newton and his son.

However, as the search dragged on, Newton's condition started to falter and he told dispatchers that he was hot and his mouth and throat were swollen. 

He vomited twice during the incident.  

Cherokee County 911 dispatcher Cindy Brookshire said Grant followed the dispatcher’s directions to keep his father alert and talking until firefighters located the pair 50 minutes after the call. 

During the ordeal, Grant shot the snake again after he saw it moving. 

Since there was no direct access to locate the Newtons, rescuers had to scour the area until they were located. 

Cherokee County firefighter Ric Mitchell said they were able to drive a battalion chief's vehicle into the area to move the Newtons out of the wooded area. 

Newton said his son did a great job helping him stay alive and added dispatchers and firefighters also were excellent in their response.

Newton was life-flighted to WellStar Kennestone Hospital in Marietta where he stayed for a few days before being released just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday.