Swarm of bees in potting soil attack, kill 59-year-old Kentucky man, coroner says

A 59-year-old man died in southeastern Kentucky this week after he was attacked by a swarm of bees, a county coroner is reporting.

The area where the man was stung is near the Virginia state line, about 160 miles southeast of Lexington.

According to the coroner, the 59-year-old man in the process of moving an old bag of potting soil from his porch on Monday when he was stung by a swarm of bees from inside the bag.

Family who witnessed the attack attempted CPR until an ambulance arrived and transported the man to a hospital where the coroner reported he was pronounced dead at 5:50 p.m. Monday.

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Official cause of death remains under investigation

The man's identity was being withheld pending notification of his next of kin, the coroner said.

The coroner said the man's official cause of death remains under investigation pending official autopsy results.

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What to do if you encounter aggressive bees

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends avoiding bees which often nest in areas including pipes, holes, and cavities within trees.

If you encounter aggressive bees:, the USDA recommends the following:

• Run fast towards an enclosed shelter like a vehicle or building and do not stop to help others. As you run, pull your shirt over your head and use your arms to protect your face.
• Do not swat at bees as they are aggravated by movement and crushed bees emit a smell that attracts additional bees.
• Once you are safe, remove all stingers. Scrape the stinger out sideways. Do not remove it with tweezers.

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior correspondent for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter @nataliealund.