A greenskeeper was killed by a swarm of bees that attacked him while he was mowing the grass at an Arizona golf course, according to reports.
Rick Messina, 57, died three days after suffering multiple stings at the nine-hole Pusch Ridge Course in Oro Valley, north of Tucson, TV station KOLD reported earlier this week.
Messina was mowing the rough near the eighth hole when the bees swarmed him June 24 in what the El Conquistador country club described as a "tragic workplace accident," CBS News said.
Messina had worked for El Conquistador since 2022 and was "known for his exceptional work ethic, positive attitude, and unwavering commitment to his duties," according to the club.
"His sudden passing is a profound loss to our work family and our community. He will be deeply missed by all," the club said in a statement.
Pusch Ridge is one of El Conquistador's three courses. Beekeepers inspected all 45 holes for signs of bees or hives but found nothing, leading them to conclude the swarm was passing through when it attacked Messina, CBS said.
The club warned members to keep their eyes peeled for "wildlife and venomous creatures," saying: "Summer is peak season for bee swarms, so please remain vigilant," KOLD said.
Messina, who had an "infectious smile" and "signature Boston accent," lived in Tucson with his parents, John and Marlene Messina, according to a post on the GoFundMe website.
The Friends of Pusch Ridge Golf organization is seeking $5,000 in donations to "help Rick's parents and show them how much Rick meant to so many people," it said.
