Maintenance worker dies from bee attack at golf course near Tucson

An employee of El Conquistador Golf in Oro Valley was killed by a swarm of bees while doing maintenance work, officials say.

Rick Messina, 57, a member of El Conquistador Golf's agronomy team since 2022, was mowing the rough of the Pusch Ridge Golf Course's 8th hole on the morning of Monday, June 24, when he was attacked by a traveling swarm of bees, according to a statement from the golf course.

Messina was then rushed to the hospital, where he died from his injuries three days later.

"Rick was a dedicated and cherished member of our team, known for his exceptional work ethic, positive attitude, and unwavering commitment to his duties," El Conquistador Golf said in a statement. "His sudden passing is a profound loss to our work family and our community. He will be deeply missed by all."

On the afternoon of the attack, professional beekeepers were called to the scene and inspected all 45 golf holes for beehives and bee activity. The service later deemed "the property clear of bees," the golf course stated.

El Conquistador Golf and Indigo Sports have deployed support resources to both Rick’s family and the golf course's associates "to help navigate through this difficult time," the statement concluded.

Additionally, management advised that summer is peak season for bee swarms and that people outdoors should be "aware and vigilant."