Tragic Holiday: Father and Son Fatally Attacked by Over 100 Asian Hornet Stings While Ziplining
An American teacher and his son tragically lost their lives during a ziplining holiday in Laos. Daniel Owen, 47, and his 15-year-old son Cooper were attacked by over 100 Asian giant hornets while descending from a tree at an eco-adventure resort.
Incident Details
The incident occurred on October 15, near the northern city of Luang Prabang. Witnesses reported that a swarm of hornets enveloped the father and son shortly after they began their descent.
Phanomsay Phakan, a doctor at the Phakan Arocavet Clinic, noted that both victims suffered numerous stings, describing their bodies as “covered in red spots.” He stated that it was a very dangerous situation he had never encountered before.
Medical Responses
Despite arriving conscious at the clinic, Daniel and Cooper Owen showed no signs of anaphylactic shock. Unfortunately, they succumbed to their injuries hours later at the Luang Prabang provincial hospital.
Background of Daniel Owen
Daniel Owen served as the director of QSI International School in Haiphong, Vietnam, for 18 years. The organization expressed their sorrow over the loss, highlighting his leadership, dedication, and the positive impact he made on countless lives.
- “Dan dedicated 18 years to QSI, serving in five different schools.”
- “He was deeply loved across our community and will be profoundly missed.”
Community Reactions
Tributes have poured in from those who knew the Owens, reflecting on Daniel’s kindness and dedication as a teacher. Comments highlighted personal anecdotes from students and colleagues expressing their grief.
About Asian Giant Hornets
Asian giant hornets are known as the world’s largest hornet, native to parts of Asia but have spread to Western countries, including the UK. Their stings can be deadly; the venom contains potent toxins, leading to numerous fatalities each year.
Recently, hornets have caused serious injuries and deaths in Spain. Just last month, three individuals died after hornet-related incidents in the Galicia region. Additionally, the so-called ‘murder hornet’ was eradicated from the U.S. after being first spotted in Washington state five years ago.
Officials stress that the risk of hornet stings varies among individuals, and there is no specific threshold for stings that determines severity. The community continues to mourn the tragic loss of Daniel and Cooper Owen as safety reviews are conducted at the ziplining resort.
