An El Conquistador Golf employee was fatally stung by a swarm of bees while working at an Oro Valley golf course two weeks ago, the companyβs management says.
On the morning of June 24, Rick Messina, a member of the agronomy team at El Conquistador Golf, was working on the 8th hole of the Pusch Ridge Course on North Oracle Road when he came into contact with a traveling swarm of bees, the company said in a written statement.
Messina was taken immediately to a local hospital where emergency aid was given, but he died three days later of complications from the bee stings, the company said.
βRick 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,β the statement said.
βEl Conquistador Golf and Indigo Sports has deployed support resources to both Rickβs family and our team to help all navigate through this difficult time,β it added.
Oro Valley town officials also expressed sadness over the death in a statement.
After the incident, professional beekeepers were called in to investigate all 45 holes on the golf course for bee hives and activity, and reported that the area was clear of bees, according to the town and the company. Public signs warning people of wild and venomous creatures have been installed at various points on the course.
The summer season is the peak time for bee swarms and people are advised to be careful when outdoors, the Oro Valley statement said.
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