California woman bitten by rattlesnake taken to hospital by husband after three 911 calls fail

Linda Martin was trimming roses barefoot when a rattlesnake bit her on July 25, 2026.

Within 30 to 45 seconds, tingling spread to her jaw and tongue, and three 911 calls failed to connect.

Her husband drove her to Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital in under 10 minutes, where she received antivenom.

California Poison Control System director Lee Cantrell reported 250 rattlesnake bite calls in first half of 2026, on track for 20% more than 2024.

Experts attribute the increase to a warm early spring and urge staying calm and seeking timely medical care after bites.