Utah Officers Stung After Millions of Bees Released in Crash

Oct. 24, 2011
A portion of an interstate in southern Utah has reopened after a truck hauling 25 million bees overturned, freeing the insects. At least two officers were stung.

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A portion of an interstate in southern Utah has reopened after a truck hauling millions of bees overturned, freeing the insects.

Authorities closed the southbound lanes of Interstate 15 near St. George for several hours Sunday night after the crash. Utah Highway Patrol Cpl. Todd Johnson says the road reopened early Monday morning.

The tractor-trailer was carrying an estimated 25 million bees.

Johnson says many of the insects dispersed but the truck's driver and passenger, along with at least two law enforcement officers were stung. No serious injuries were reported. He says beekeepers were brought in to help.

The hives have since been moved to nearby pastures in hopes the bees will return. Authorities had been recommending drivers in the area keep their windows closed.

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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