Rick Messina, a 57-year-old golf course worker at El Conquistador Golf & Tennis Club in Arizona, was killed after being attacked by a swarm of bees.
According to CBS News report, the tragic incident occurred June 24 near the eighth hole of the Pusch Ridge Golf Course, and despite immediate medical attention, Messina succumbed to complications from bee stings three days later, June 27.
A golf course worker in southern Arizona died last month after being attacked by a swarm of bees while on the job, his employer said.
— CBS News (@CBSNews) July 11, 2024
Messina was performing his duties as a member of the agronomy team, mowing the rough, when the bees attacked. Following the incident, emergency services quickly transported him to a local hospital, the outlet reported. In response to this incident, professional beekeepers were summoned to inspect the area for potential hives or remnants of the swarm, though none were found. The absence of a hive suggested that the swarm was likely just passing through.
The management of El Conquistador has taken multiple steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. They inspected all golf courses for beehives and bee activity. General Manager Darryl Janisse informed club members of the deadly incident, added new signs warning of wildlife and venomous creatures, along with continuous staff training on bee safety.
The club, along with Indigo Sports, the management company overseeing El Conquistador, is also providing support to Messina’s family and coworkers during this time.
According to the CBS News report, experts from the University of Arizona and the Carl Hayden Bee Research Center have noted that while most local bee species are not typically dangerous, Africanized honey bees in the area can be particularly aggressive. These bees, often called “killer bees,” are notorious for their persistence and the potent toxicity of their stings, which can be fatal.