DEL RIO, Texas – Three Del Rio police officers were stung several times while rescuing a man who was attacked by bees during yard work on West Garza Street, the Del Rio Police Department said in a release on Saturday, Oct. 24.

Police said the man was using a weed eater when he unknowingly disturbed a beehive. Officers who responded helped move him to safety as the bees kept stinging. The man, who had multiple stings, was taken to the hospital for treatment.

Street closed while firefighters handled the hive

Garza Street was closed for a time between Arteaga and Broadbent streets to keep people away while crews dealt with the bees.

Del Rio Fire Department personnel set up a safety perimeter, found the hive and took action to eliminate the hazard. Police said that work helped protect nearby residents, drivers passing through and the first responders at the scene.

“Emergency calls can take many forms, and this one brought an unexpected danger to both the man needing help and the officers assisting him,” the department said.

Garza Street has since reopened. Police thanked the community for its patience during the closure.

Staying safe around bees

Bee colonies can hide in walls, sheds, trees and thick brush, and the noise and vibration of mowers and weed eaters can set them off. Residents who see a swarm or hive near their home should keep their distance and call a professional beekeeper or pest control company. Anyone being attacked should get indoors or into a vehicle as fast as possible and call 911.

Read our earlier coverage: Del Rio Homeowner Shoots Suspected Burglar Inside His Home Police Say