SANTEE, CA – A woman in Santee is recuperating after enduring a harrowing attack by a swarm of bees that left her stung more than 100 times. The incident unfolded in a typically quiet neighborhood, where a plumber’s quick thinking turned a terrifying scene into a rescue mission.
Diostato Roque, a local plumber, was wrapping up a routine job when he noticed an elderly woman enveloped in a cloud of bees. Her distress was palpable as she spoke in Spanish, indicating she was about to lose consciousness. Just as she began to collapse, Roque caught her, preventing her from hitting the ground.
Driven by instinct, Roque pulled the woman to safety, shielding her from the relentless swarm. His partner, quick on his feet, grabbed a fire extinguisher and began dispersing the bees, allowing Roque to protect the woman. Despite suffering multiple stings himself, Roque was determined to help.
The chaotic scene escalated as the bees pursued Roque and his partner to their van. Video footage captured the frantic moments as they struggled to fend off the swarm that had infiltrated their vehicle.
Emergency responders arrived swiftly, transporting the woman, identified as Juana, to a nearby hospital. She had been resting in the shade of a tree when the bees descended upon her. Fortunately, she is expected to make a full recovery.
Roque expressed relief at being in the right place at the right time, emphasizing the importance of helping those in need. His actions not only saved Juana but also brought solace to her family.
Experts warn that bee swarms are a common occurrence during the summer months. They advise that if faced with a similar situation, individuals should seek shelter indoors or in a vehicle and protect their face.
Juana remains under medical care but is anticipated to be discharged soon, her recovery largely credited to the courage of a stranger who stepped in without hesitation.