Luang Prabang, Laos — A tragic vacation turned deadly for an American father and son after they were attacked by a swarm of Asian giant hornets while ziplining at a jungle park in Southeast Asia.
Authorities confirmed that Daniel Owen, 47, originally from Idaho Falls, Idaho, and his 15-year-old son, Cooper, died after being stung more than 100 times during the incident last month at Green Jungle Park in Laos, near the border with Thailand.
Attack Happened During Zipline Descent
Local officials said the pair were ziplining with a guide when a swarm of hornets attacked them mid-descent. The incident occurred on Wednesday, October 15, according to Phanomsay Phakan, director of the Phakan Arocavet Clinic, where both victims were rushed for emergency treatment.
“It was very brief and rushed,” Phakan told USA TODAY in an email.
Despite being transported to the clinic quickly, both Owen and his son succumbed to their injuries due to severe allergic reactions and venom overload.
According to USA TODAY, the father and son were on a family vacation in Laos when the fatal attack occurred. The report noted that they were “apparently stung by hundreds of Asian giant hornets” while descending from a tree platform with their zipline guide.
Victims Identified as American Citizens
A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State confirmed that two U.S. citizens had died in Luang Prabang, northern Laos, saying,
“Out of respect for the privacy of the family and loved ones during this difficult time, we have no further comment.”
Daniel Owen had been living in Vietnam at the time of his death, serving as director of QSI International School of Haiphong, part of the Quality Schools International (QSI) network.
In a heartfelt post on Facebook, QSI paid tribute to Owen’s contributions to international education.
“We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Dan Owen,” the organization wrote. “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.”
What Are Asian Giant Hornets?
Asian giant hornets, sometimes referred to as “murder hornets,” are the largest hornets in the world, capable of growing up to two inches long. They are known for their extremely potent venom and aggressive behavior when defending their nests.
Key facts about the species:
- They prey on bees and other insects, often destroying entire hives within hours.
- Their venom can cause severe allergic reactions and, in high quantities, organ failure or cardiac arrest.
- The hornets are native to Asia, found in countries including Japan, Vietnam, and Laos.
- The Washington State Department of Agriculture warns that a single colony can kill dozens of bees per minute and poses significant ecological threats if introduced to new regions.
Ongoing Investigation and Safety Concerns
Authorities in Laos are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the attack, including whether park safety protocols were in place. Adventure operators in the region are now being urged to conduct environmental checks for hornet nests before starting outdoor activities.
Experts caution travelers participating in jungle or canopy tours to wear protective clothing, avoid perfumes, and stay alert to insect nests in tropical forests.
What are your thoughts on this tragic incident and how adventure parks can better protect visitors from wildlife risks? Share your views in the comments below.
