American Father and Son Die After Wasp Attack in Laos
Dan Owen, director of an international school in Vietnam, and his teenage son Cooper died after being attacked by a swarm of wasps while ziplining in Laos. The tragic incident occurred on October 15 at Green Jungle Park, located near Luang Prabang — a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its natural beauty and tourism.
According to emergency room physician Jorvue Yianouchongteng at Luang Prabang Provincial Hospital, the pair were initially treated at a local clinic before being transferred to the hospital in critical condition.
"The son was unconscious and passed away after half an hour, while the father was conscious and passed away about three hours later," said Yianouchongteng. "We tried our best to save them but we couldn't."
The doctor reported that both victims experienced severe anaphylactic shock after suffering more than 100 stings, though the precise cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
Rescue and Medical Response
- The attack occurred during their descent from the zipline platform.
- Local medical staff provided immediate aid before the victims were transported to the provincial hospital.
- Despite intensive care efforts, both succumbed to their injuries within hours.
About the Location
Green Jungle Park is an adventure destination near Luang Prabang, a culturally rich city recognized by UNESCO in 1995 for its historical and architectural significance.
Author’s summary: A father and his son died in Laos after a wasp swarm attack during a zipline ride, suffering over 100 stings that led to fatal anaphylactic shock.