A roofing worker was killed and two others were hospitalized July 7 after being attacked by bees while working on the roof of Vi at Silverstone Independent Living Facility, a senior living center in Scottsdale, Ariz., according to television news organization Arizona’s Family.
The workers had been hired to prepare a side column near the roof area of the facility so a beekeeper could take care of a beehive the following day. Nicolas Lopez Soto, 65, and another worker were removing stucco from the column when a swarm of bees attacked. Both workers were in the basket of an aerial lift, and by the time they reached the ground, Soto was stung “numerous times” and was unconscious. He was taken to the hospital where he later died. It is not known whether Soto was allergic to bees.
The second worker had about two dozen bee stings, and a third worker on the ground during the incident was stung about a dozen times. Both workers were taken to the hospital and reported in stable condition.
It is important to remember bees can build hives in roof areas, such as under overhangs. If a worker is allergic to bees, an attack can be fatal.
To prevent or survive a bee attack, beekeeper Cricket Ungvary recommends wearing light-colored clothing; not flailing or screaming; leaving the area and, if possible, entering a building and turning on a light; covering your face; and not trying to remove the hive yourself. Bee experts say the attack likely was by an Africanized bee colony, which makes up more than 90% of Arizona's bee population; Africanized bees look like typical honeybees but are known for their defensiveness and are more likely to swarm and sting in larger numbers.
If you or someone else is stung by a bee, quickly remove the stinger if it is still in the skin; wash the area with soap and water; and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If signs of an allergic reaction occur, such as difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical help immediately.
