'RIP oom slang': Tributes flow for Worcester snake catcher Andre du Preez after sudden death

The Worcester community is mourning the loss of well-known snake catcher Andre du Preez, affectionately known as “Oom Slang”, who died after suffering complications linked to a spider bite, Cape Argus has reported.

Du Preez reportedly sustained multiple bites to his right ear earlier this month. The injury is believed to have triggered shingles, leading to serious health complications.

On 9 February 2026, Du Preez shared a photograph of himself in hospital on Facebook, explaining that he had already been admitted for four days. He said the bite likely occurred while he was searching a shed for a cobra.

In the post, he described how the wound initially resembled a water blister before worsening. He added that his balance had been severely affected and told followers he would focus on recovering before returning to snake-catching duties.

Days later, on 13 February, his family posted an update confirming that he had been moved to the Intensive Care Unit. They said he had been medically sedated as doctors treated complications associated with shingles.

By Wednesday, the family shared that they were praying for improvement and planned to read messages of support to him at his bedside, hoping he would hear them.

However, on Thursday, relatives confirmed his passing. In a statement shared on social media, the family said Du Preez died surrounded by loved ones.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father and husband,” the statement read. “He was surrounded by his family and friends until the very end.”

Efforts to obtain further comment from the family were unsuccessful at the time of publication.

Boland Snake Removals 24/7 and Pest Control paid tribute to Du Preez, describing him as a respected figure in the snake-catching community. The organisation hailed him as a hero to many and extended condolences to his wife, children and supporters.

Du Preez was widely known in Worcester and surrounding areas for his dedication to wildlife rescue and community safety.

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