Three hospitalized after dangerous bee swarm attack in France

In the early hours of July 6, 2025, a swarm of bees attacked passersby in the French town of Aurillac, resulting in 24 injuries, including three critical cases. The incident occurred around 10 a.m. while individuals were strolling in the town center. The bees originated from hives located on the roof of the Bordeaux hotel, which has been a presence in the city for over a decade. Emergency services quickly responded to the scene, providing immediate medical assistance to those affected. Among the injured, one elderly individual, aged 78, suffered a cardiac arrest due to the attack but was resuscitated. Authorities noted that while some victims sustained significant injuries, the panic prompted by the swarm exacerbated the situation. Mayor Pierre Mathonier suggested that the aggressive behavior of the bees could be linked to the increasing presence of Asian hornets in Europe, a known threat to honey bee colonies. He expressed concern over having beehives situated in urban areas and indicated that a reevaluation of such practices might be on the horizon in Aurillac. This incident, he stated, was unprecedented in his experience, prompting serious discussions regarding public safety and apiary regulation. As the situation stabilized by the afternoon, local officials ensured that the health of victims has improved. While emergency services and firefighters effectively managed the chaotic scene, the mayor remarked on the bizarre nature of the attack. This event serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by interactions between urban populations and bee populations, particularly as environmental changes influence bee behavior.