A tragic workplace accident at a golf course in Arizona resulted in the death of an employee who was attacked by a swarm of bees. The incident occurred near hole 8 at the Pusch Ridge Course, part of El Conquistador Golf in Oro Valley, about 10 miles north of Tucson. Rick Messina, a member of the agronomy team, was mowing in the area when he was stung. Despite being taken to a local hospital, he passed away three days later. The property was inspected by beekeepers following the incident, who found no hives or bee activity.
The employee, Rick Messina, was described as dedicated and cherished by the golf course staff. He had been a member of the agronomy team since July 2022, known for his exceptional work ethic and positive attitude. El Conquistador Golf and Indigo Sports expressed their sadness over his death, attributing it to complications from the bee stings. Support resources were deployed for both Messina’s family and the team to help them through this difficult time.
Arizona has seen an increase in bee-related incidents recently, with the summer being a peak season for bee swarms. Bees made headlines during a game between the Dodgers and the Diamondbacks at Chase Field in Phoenix when a colony formed on the net behind home plate. Concerned about the potential danger, an exterminator was hired to remove the bees. Similar incidents occurred during a Diamondbacks baseball game in early May, causing a delay due to bees gathering at the netting behind home plate.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns about the dangers of bee stings, noting that between 2011 and 2021, there were 788 deaths related to hornet, wasp, and bee stings in the United States. It is advised to stay calm and leave the area when encountering swarms of bees, as they may become aggressive if provoked. Tips include avoiding dark, loose clothing, perfumes, and swatting at bees to prevent attracting them.
Duane Combs, president of the Beekeepers Association of Central Arizona, advises backing away calmly if bees start circling or bumping into you. This is a sign that they may feel threatened and could potentially sting in self-defense. By taking precautions such as avoiding sudden movements near hives and refraining from wearing items that attract bees, individuals can reduce their risk of being stung. In the event of a bee swarm, it is best to retreat slowly and seek shelter indoors to minimize the chances of getting stung.
In conclusion, the tragic death of an employee at a golf course in Arizona highlights the importance of being cautious around bees, especially during peak swarm season. Employers and individuals are encouraged to take necessary precautions to prevent bee-related incidents and protect themselves from potential harm. By staying informed and following safety guidelines, the risk of bee stings can be minimized, ensuring a safer environment for both workers and the general public.
