American Father and Son Killed by Swarm of Hornets on Vacation Zip Line
An American man, Daniel Owen, and his 15-year-old son, Cooper, were fatally attacked by hundreds of hornets while zip lining at Green Jungle Park near Luang Prabang, Laos. The tragic incident took place in October while the family was on vacation.
According to reports, the two were living in Vietnam and had traveled to Laos for a holiday adventure. Witnesses told local media that the swarm appeared to consist of Asian giant hornets, one of the most dangerous insect species in the region.
The pair was initially taken to Phakan Arocavet Clinic for emergency care after sustaining more than 100 stings. Though both were conscious and showed no signs of anaphylactic shock upon arrival, their condition worsened, and they passed away hours later at a nearby hospital.
“Out of respect for the privacy of the family and loved ones during this difficult time, we have no further comment,”
stated a spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State, confirming the deaths of two American citizens.
Doctor Phanomsay Phakan from Phakan Arocavet Clinic confirmed the incident in an email to PEOPLE, describing the initial treatment as “very brief and rushed.”
Daniel Owen was about to turn 47 at the time of the tragedy, according to the Times.
Summary
During a zip line excursion in Laos, Daniel Owen and his teenage son Cooper were fatally stung by a swarm of Asian hornets, despite receiving emergency treatment soon after the attack.