A park is speaking out after a dad and son tragically died to a swarm of hornets. They had been vacationing in Laos when they were attacked by the insects.
Daniel Owen and his son Cooper had visited Green Jungle Park near the city of Luang Prabang on October 15. They were ziplining when they disturbed a hive of Asian giant hornets as they were leaving the tree. According to the U.K. Times, the insects attacked and stung the duo repeatedly. The hornets stung them more than 100 times.
Now, Green Jungle Park is speaking out about the incident. They said "no fault was attributed to the park" following an "official review."
"This event is unprecedented in our experience and, to our understanding, in Luang Prabang as well," they said in the statement. "It was an unforeseeable and extraordinary natural occurrence."
Green Jungle Park officials have cooperated with authorities and US officials following the tragic deaths. Officials said they "have reviewed all existing procedures and further enhanced aspects of our emergency response protocols, including the evacuation process for the zipline course."
Swarm Of Hornets
"We remain committed to the highest standards of professionalism and responsibility toward everyone who visits us," they said in the statement. "We have revisited our internal practices to ensure that our vigilance continues, and we remain dedicated to providing guests with a safe, memorable, and enjoyable experience."
"We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Dan Owen, Director of QSI International School of Haiphong, and his son Cooper, due to a tragic accident," the school said. "Dan dedicated 18 years to QSI, serving in five different schools and touching countless lives with his warmth, leadership, and unwavering commitment to education. He was deeply loved across our community and will be profoundly missed."
Meanwhile, park officials also mourned the loss of the duo.
"Our thoughts continue to be with the Owen family during this difficult time," they said in their statement.
