A hiker is in critical condition after being stung "more than 100 times" by bees in Arizona.
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The incident occurred on Lookout Mountain on Saturday at around 10 a.m.
The hiker was able to call emergency services after suffering the attack but was unable to descend the mountain due to his injuries.
Officials have since confirmed that he is now "fighting for his life."
Bee Swarm Attack Leaves Hiker in Critical Condition
Rescue teams deployed a helicopter to reach the victim and bring him to safety. He was then transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital.
"Phoenix Fire Department has urged hikers to avoid disturbing hives, wear light-coloured clothing, and not to use scented products while outdoors," Sky News wrote.
"Anyone who encounters a swarm is advised to run away quickly while protecting their head and face - taking extra care to cover their mouth."
Dr. Frank Lovecchio, a professor at Arizona State University, explained the severity of such attacks, noting that repeated stings can have serious physical effects.
Speaking to Fox 10, Lovecchio said the venom from multiple bee stings "crushes your muscle."
He added that bees in Arizona are known to be particularly aggressive, with incidents involving hundreds of stings not uncommon.
"It's always about protecting the queen bee, protecting the hive," he said. "And it sends signals that the other bees come over and kind of attack you."
Increased Bee Activity Raises Safety Concerns in Arizona
Officials have pointed to "an unusually warm winter" as a factor contributing to increased bee activity across the region.
Similar incidents have been reported in recent months. A man in his 50s was stung "multiple times" at Arizona State University's soccer stadium after a swarm suddenly became aggressive.
Several others were also stung in the incident, though the man suffered the most severe injuries while attempting to escape. He was taken to hospital for treatment.
A firefighter responding to the scene was also stung but "did not require serious medical attention."
In July 2025, two adults and two children were stung in another incident outside a dollar store in the same region.
Fire officials reported that some victims were stung "up to 15 times," with all requiring hospital treatment.
Reports suggest that nearby landscaping work may have disturbed a hive, triggering the swarm.
