Itapetininga, São Paulo – A bee attack near a market on Avenida Peixoto Gomide in the center of Itapetininga left one person dead and 11 others injured on Friday (19). Authorities closed the avenue and the nearby market during the incident.

According to the city government, at about 11 a.m. emergency teams from the Mobile Emergency Care Service (SAMU) were called to help a 74-year-old man being attacked by bees. All available teams, including nine professionals, responded, and the Fire Department was also called to remove the swarm.

When rescuers arrived, they found the victim and other people under attack. Attempts to get close were difficult because of the swarm. As a temporary measure until the Fire Department arrived, SAMU used a fire extinguisher to try to keep the insects away. Six rescuers were stung and later treated for minor injuries.

With the arrival of the specialized Fire Department team, part of the swarm was dispersed, and rescuers were finally able to reach the victim. Despite their efforts, he did not survive.

In total, 11 people were injured in the attack: six SAMU paramedics, three firefighters, and two women aged 50 and 58 who were in the supermarket parking lot. The 50-year-old woman was taken to the emergency room after first aid.

The Municipal Civil Guard and Fire Department sealed off the entire area. According to local officials, the swarm was likely passing through the area during a migratory period. The store manager said the bees appeared suddenly, prompting employees to close the market’s main door and shelter residents outside.