Top News

Daniel Owen, 47, and his 15-year-old son Cooper were attacked by a swarm of Asian giant hornets, an invasive, predatory species commonly dubbed “murder hornets”, and stung more than 100 times while zip-lining in Green Jungle Park on Oct. 15, The New York Post reported.

They struggled to come down from a tree they had climbed with their guide.

They both died hours after being taken to a nearby hospital.

It is unclear what happened to their guide.

A U.S. Department of State spokesperson confirmed the deaths of two American citizens in Luang Prabang but said that “out of respect for the privacy of the family and loved ones during this difficult time, we have no further comment,” The Times reported.

Owen was director of Quality Schools International in Hai Phong City in Vietnam, and is believed to have been on holiday in Laos.

Green Jungle Park, where the incident occurred, extended its deepest condolences and said it has reviewed all existing procedures.

According to the Entomological Society of America, the Asian giant hornet “is an invasive hornet native to Asia.”

Asian giant hornets can grow up to 6.35 cm. Their venom can cause necrosis – the death of cells or tissue – around the entry wound.

If victims get stung many times, it can be fatal, especially if the venom reaches the victim’s organs via the bloodstream.

Laos is considered a popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia, particularly for those seeking an “off the beaten path” experience with a focus on nature, culture, and affordability.