American Father and Son Die After Wasps Attack While Ziplining in Laos
Incident Overview
An American father and his teenage son tragically died last month after being attacked by a swarm of wasps while ziplining at an adventure camp in Laos. The incident occurred on October 15 at Green Jungle Park, located near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang.
Medical Response
Dan Owen, the director of an international school in Vietnam, and his 14-year-old son, Cooper, were swarmed by the insects as they descended from a zip line. They were initially treated at a local clinic before being transported to Luang Prabang Provincial Hospital in critical condition. According to Dr. Jorvue Yianouchongteng, the emergency room physician, Cooper lost consciousness and died approximately thirty minutes after arrival, while Dan, despite being conscious when he arrived, succumbed about three hours later.
Dr. Yianouchongteng stated that both individuals suffered severe anaphylactic shock after being stung more than 100 times, although the exact cause of death has yet to be confirmed.
Possibility of “Murder Hornet” Involvement
While the Asian giant hornet, commonly referred to as the “murder hornet,” is known for its aggressive behavior and is found in Laos, it remains unclear which specific species of wasp was involved in the attack. These hornets were previously confirmed to have been eradicated from the U.S. after being identified in Washington state in 2019.
Reaction and Condolences
The local clinic involved in their initial treatment declined to comment, and efforts to reach the management of Green Jungle Park were unsuccessful. Dr. Phanomsay Phakan, from the clinic where Owen and Cooper received their first treatment, described their condition as dire, noting their bodies were covered in red spots and they were in extreme pain.
The U.S. State Department acknowledged the deaths of two American citizens in Laos but refrained from providing further details out of respect for the families involved. Meanwhile, Owen’s employer, Quality Schools International, expressed its sorrow over the loss, highlighting his significant impact on the school’s community over 18 years and extending condolences to the Owen family.
Conclusion
The heartbreaking incident underscores the potential dangers associated with outdoor recreational activities in unfamiliar environments. As families consider travel plans, especially to adventure parks, it is crucial to remain vigilant and informed about safety measures and wildlife risks in the area.
For those planning to explore the beauty of Luang Prabang or similar destinations, ensure you book accommodations and activities with reputable providers to enhance safety during your adventures.