Tragedy as Arizona golf course worker dies after being attacked by horror bee swarm

In a heartbreaking turn of events, an Arizona golf course worker was fatally attacked by a bee swarm last month, as confirmed by his employer.

Rick Messina, aged 57, who was part of the agronomy team at El Conquistador Golf and Tennis in Oro Valley, was dedicated to keeping the grounds in pristine condition. The tragic incident occurred on June 24 near the eighth hole of Pusch Ridge Golf Course, where Messina encountered a hostile bee swarm.

The golf course management has since referred to the occurrence as "a tragic workplace accident ." Messina was operating a mower in the rough at Pusch Ridge when he was besieged by the bees.

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Despite being swiftly transported to a local hospital by emergency services, he succumbed to complications from the stings three days later. After the attack, professional bee removers were called in to assess and secure the area, reports the Express US .

The club honored Messina's memory, stating: "Rick was a dedicated and cherished member of our team, known for his exceptional work ethic, positive attitude, and unwavering commitment to his duties. His sudden passing is a profound loss to our work family and our community. He will be deeply missed by all."

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Darryl Janisse, the general manager of El Conquistador Golf, expressed his sorrow in an email to club members, saying: "It is with a heavy heart that I am emailing our membership with a tragic incident that took place at Pusch Ridge involving one of our work associates and a swarm of bees."

Janisse went on to outline plans for safety improvements following Messina's death, including signs urging visitors to be "watchful of wildlife and venomous creatures." While most of the numerous bee species in Arizona are not dangerous to humans, some swarms and hives can cause serious injury and even death.