American Father, Son Killed by Asian Giant Hornets

On October 15, US nationals Daniel Owen, 47, and his 15-year-old son Cooper were fatally attacked by Asian giant hornets while zip‑lining at an eco‑adventure resort near Luang Prabang, Laos after being swarmed as they tried to descend from a tree. The pair were reportedly stung more than 100 times, were conscious and without obvious signs of anaphylaxis when rushed to Phakan Arocavet Clinic, and were later transferred to a provincial hospital where they died a few hours later, Dr Phanomsay Phakan said. Owen had served roughly 18 years as director of Quality Schools International’s Haiphong campus and was mourned by his school; the resort described the event as unprecedented. Asian giant hornets can deliver potent venom and, while fatal attacks are rare, invasive hornet populations threaten people’s health and local biodiversity including honey bees. The resort and local authorities are reviewing procedures amid international media coverage and condolences.