Tragic Wasp Attack Claims Lives of American Father and Son in Laos

Bangkok, Nov 6 (AP) An American man and his teenage son tragically lost their lives last month after being attacked by wasps while ziplining at an adventure camp in Laos. They were stung numerous times, a hospital official reported on Thursday.

Dan Owen, who served as the director of an international school in Vietnam, and his son Cooper encountered the wasp attack on October 15 at the Green Jungle Park. This occurred as they were descending from a tree at the conclusion of their zip line experience.

The adventure camp is situated near Luang Prabang, a popular tourist destination in Laos, which was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.

After the attack, the duo was initially treated at a local clinic and then transferred to Luang Prabang Provincial Hospital. They arrived in critical condition, according to Jorvue Yianouchongteng, the emergency room physician attending to them.

“The son was unconscious and passed away after half an hour, while the father was conscious and passed away about three hours later,” the doctor informed The Associated Press. “We tried our best to save them but we couldn't.” He explained that both victims suffered severe anaphylactic shock after being stung over 100 times, though the exact cause of death remains undetermined.

The specific type of wasps involved in the attack is still unknown, though the Asian giant hornet, often dubbed the “murder hornet” for its aggressive nature, is found in the region, along with other wasp species.

The local clinic where initial treatment was provided declined to comment, and Green Jungle Park has not yet responded to inquiries from the AP. Similarly, the Laos Foreign Ministry has not offered a statement regarding the incident.

The US State Department confirmed the demise of two US citizens in Luang Prabang but chose not to divulge further details “out of respect for the privacy of the family and loved ones.”

Quality Schools International, where Owen was employed, acknowledged his contributions in a heartfelt Facebook post. They highlighted his 18 years of dedication and service within the chain, which operates 35 schools globally. At the time of his demise, he served as the director of the QSI International School of Haiphong in Vietnam.

“He was deeply loved across our community and will be profoundly missed,” the school expressed. “Our sincere condolences go out to the Owen family and all who knew and loved them.” (AP)

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