Oro Valley, Arizona – An Arizona golf course employee tragically lost his life after being stung by a passing swarm of bees. Rick Messina, a dedicated groundskeeper at the Pusch Ridge Course, was carrying out his duties on the eighth hole on June 24 when the incident occurred. He was immediately taken to a local hospital, where he sadly passed away three days later. The news of Messina’s untimely death was shared with members of the golf club via a heartfelt message.
Described as a valued and respected member of the team, Messina was known for his exceptional work ethic and positive attitude. The shocking news of his passing has deeply affected both his work family and the local community, with his absence being acutely felt. A statement from El Conquistador Golf revealed that Messina, 57, had been an integral part of their agronomy team since July 2022.
Following the tragic incident, the golf club took swift action and enlisted the services of professional beekeepers to inspect every hole on the course. Despite their thorough search, no further bee activity was discovered. Town officials in Oro Valley have cautioned residents about the high presence of bee swarms during the summer months, urging vigilance in order to prevent similar instances.
The loss of Rick Messina leaves a void in the Oro Valley community, where he was appreciated for his dedication and commitment. As the investigation into the incident continues, it serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers encountered in our everyday lives.