A 74-year-old man from Marondera, Zimbabwe, passed away on Saturday, June 21, 2025, after being ferociously assaulted by a swarm of bees in the town’s central business district.
The incident took place near a streetlight pole across from the Marondera Government Complex, where a beehive had reportedly remained untouched. Eyewitnesses noted that the bees had been hostile throughout the morning, stinging anyone who ventured too near.
As the elderly man walked by, the swarm attacked him. Despite his attempts to fend them off and shouts for assistance, the bees overpowered him. Bystanders who attempted to help were also stung and compelled to retreat for their own safety.
Emergency services were summoned, and police officers, along with Marondera Municipality officials, hurriedly transported the man to Marondera Hospital. He was declared dead upon arrival, having lost consciousness at the scene.
One witness, Chikwerengwe Mavishu, who was also stung during the turmoil, said the man was in evident agony and cried out for help. “I was close when I saw him being attacked. When I tried to assist, I was also attacked and had to call the police. When they arrived, it was too late,” he said.
As the area was being secured, a ZBC News crew reported witnessing another individual attacked by the same swarm while attempting to flee. Authorities have since initiated efforts to safely remove the beehive to prevent further incidents.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
