Accident Bee Hunter Killed by Swarm in Forest Incident

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Workpoint.

 

A 47-year-old man known locally as an experienced honeycomb hunter was found dead in a community forest in Kalasin province after being attacked by a swarm of bees in what rescuers have described as a tragic and cautionary incident.

 

The victim, identified as Mr. Somklai, had ventured into the forest near Wat Pa Non Sawan in Nong E Thao subdistrict, Yang Talat district, on the morning of 20 May to search for honeycombs. According to family members, it was a common practice for him, as he regularly collected wild honey as a source of income.

 

At approximately 14:30, while heavy rain fell across the region, local police were alerted to the discovery of a body in the forest. Rescue teams from the Samakkhi Katanyu Kalasin Foundation, led by Mr. Chayaphon Watcharaudomkun, arrived at the scene alongside investigators from Yang Talat Police Station and a duty doctor from Yang Talat Hospital.

 

The deceased was found lying on his back beside his motorcycle, soaked from the rain and still clutching his ignition key in his right hand. His clothing was drenched, and his body bore multiple red welts with bee stingers embedded in his arms, legs, neck, torso, and head. Several bees were still clinging to the victim’s clothing and skin.

 

Investigators believe Mr. Somklai had disturbed a hive and was attacked by hundreds of bees. He likely tried to flee and reach his motorcycle to escape, but succumbed to a reaction from the venomous stings before he could escape the area. His death is estimated to have occurred one to two hours before the body was discovered by a local forager.

 

Authorities ruled out foul play, and the family did not request further investigation. His body was transported to his home in Ban Dong Noi village for funeral rites.

 

Mr. Chayaphon urged the public, especially those who forage in forests during the rainy season, to exercise caution. “People searching for wild mushrooms, vegetables, or honey must be aware of the dangers posed by venomous animals. Bee hunting, in particular, is extremely risky. Bees are highly aggressive when provoked, and multiple stings can lead to death,” he said.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-05-22.