GLOUCESTER, Virginia – A snake regarded as one of the world’s deadliest is missing from its owner’s vehicle and authorities worry for the public’s safety.

According to the sheriff’s office, a Crime Line tip this morning said a Fer-de-lance had been in a car parked at Super Wal-Mart on Walton Lane, but now it’s missing.

Investigators don’t know the snake’s size and want to warn the public about handling any snake in that area.

Courtesy: Univ. of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine

A Fer-del-lance snake

According to authorities, the snake is considered the most dangerous snake of Central and South America and causes more human deaths than any other American reptile.

According to Brittanica online, the Fer-de-lance is found in tropical South America and the West Indies and can grow to nine feet in length. It's gray or brown with light stripes and dark diamond markings and has a yellow throat.

Gloucester authorities say hospitals throughout the area have been put on standby and neighboring jurisdictions have been alerted of the snake's possible disappearance.

If you can help investigators with information about the snake, call the Gloucester County Crime Line at 804-693-COPS or the Sheriffs Office directly at 804-693-3890.