ORANGE COUNTY, Texas (TNND) — An 18-wheeler carrying hundreds of beehives overturned Sunday morning, releasing millions of honeybees into a residential area.
Orange County Emergency Services urged residents to stay indoors due to the “heavy presence of bees.” By Sunday afternoon, crews were working to safely transfer the hives onto new transport trucks for relocation to a local honey farm.
Local beekeepers and volunteers participated in the recovery efforts, with Christie Ray, owner of Queen Bee Supply, sharing updates on social media. No serious injuries were reported, although a few dogs were stung during the incident.
According to Chris Moore, owner of Moore Honey, an estimated quarter of the 408 beehives may survive, contingent on the viability of the queen bees. The driver reportedly took a wrong turn onto narrow neighborhood roads, leading to the trailer tipping over while maneuvering a tight corner.
Authorities continue to oversee the situation and assist with the recovery process.