Two americans Killed in Laos by Hornet Stings
Luang Prabang, Laos – Two American tourists died in Laos after being attacked by a swarm of hornets and sustaining over 100 bites each, according to reports from local doctors and news agencies. The incident, wich occurred recently in the Luang Prabang province, highlights the potential dangers posed by these venomous insects, even in remote areas.
Daniel Owen, 47, originally from Idaho, and his son, Cooper Owen, 15, were on vacation when they were attacked. Owen was the director of the QSI International School in Vietnam, and his son was a student there. while attacks are rare, the ferocity of these hornets when defending their nests can be deadly, and the victims quickly succumbed to the effects of the stings and subsequent anaphylactic shock.
According to Phanomsay Phakan, a doctor at the clinic where the Owens were initially treated, “Their whole body was covered in red bites. It was very,very painful. They had more than 100 bites all over their bodies.” The son, Cooper, died approximately 30 minutes after the attack, while his father, Daniel, died three hours later despite the efforts of medical staff.
Jorvue Yianouchongteng,an emergency room doctor who treated both victims,stated,”We did everything possible to save them,but we couldn’t.” While the exact cause of death is still under investigation, both men were in severe anaphylactic shock.
These hornets, sometimes referred to as “murder hornets,” have gained notoriety for their potent venom and aggressive behavior. They have spread around the world, including a period of concern in the USA, though officials confirmed in 2024 that they had been eradicated from the contry.
QSI International School released a statement mourning the loss of Daniel Owen,who had dedicated 18 years to the organization. “Dan dedicated 18 years to QSI,at five different schools,touching countless lives with his warmth,leadership and non-negotiable commitment to education. He was beloved in our community and will be greatly missed. Our deepest condolences to the Owen family and all who knew and loved them.”
