Man killed after disturbing 100-pound hive of bees

A man was stung to death and further victims were rushed to hospital after an enormous 100-pound beehive was disturbed at an Arizona home.

The fire department received the call around noon on Thursday after reports of a bee swarm with at least six people stung. They described it as “a large open hive, estimated around 100 pounds, was located in a tree nearby.”

Three of the victims were stung “hundreds of times” and had to go to the hospital for medical evaluation. Firefighters at the scene were also attacked “multiple times”, with one firefighter believed to have been stung about 60 times. One casualty, who has not yet been identified, was later pronounced dead.

The Northwest fire department took to their official Twitter account to address the incident. In a four-part thread, they said:

“Around 12:00 p.m., Northwest Fire crews were dispatched to the area of Moore Road and Thomas Arron Drive in reference to a bee swarm. At least six individuals were stung multiple times during the incident.”

“Three patients (civilians), believed to have been stung hundreds of times, were transported for or received medical evaluation.”

“Three of our firefighters were stung multiple times while dispatched on the call. One firefighter, believed to have been stung about 60 times, was taken to a local hospital for evaluation. He has been released. The other two firefighters did not need medical treatment.” They then proceeded with a tweet to announce the death of one victim.

Police urge residents to stay alert Twitter

“Although the area is much safer, there are still some lingering bees”, police said in a statement, “Please continue to use caution while in the area. Several people were injured and one person has passed away due to their injuries.”