Deputy Hospitalized After Hornet Attack During Rescue Near Twin Buttes

SAN ANGELO, TX — A Tom Green County sheriff’s deputy was hospitalized overnight after being stung multiple times by hornets while trying to free a trapped occupant from an overturned off-road vehicle Sunday near Twin Buttes Reservoir. 

The Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call at about 4:30 p.m. reporting a one-vehicle rollover on Lake Bluff Trail. The caller said one person was trapped inside the vehicle, which had struck a large hornet nest and stung multiple occupants. 

Deputies arriving at the remote scene had to leave their patrol vehicles and cross a fence to reach the wreck. One deputy was attacked by the swarm and received multiple stings while attempting to help the trapped occupant. 

A second deputy obtained a protective bee suit from the San Angelo Fire Department, entered the area, and extricated the occupant.

The injured deputy was taken to Shannon Medical Center for treatment and observation and remained hospitalized overnight. Two vehicle occupants were also taken to Shannon; one was released, and the other was hospitalized. The Sheriff’s Office said both the deputy and the remaining victim were believed to be in good condition. 

Officials urged residents to use extra caution around bees, wasps, yellowjackets and hornets. Those colonies typically reach their largest size in late summer and early fall. 

The Sheriff’s Office thanked the Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, San Angelo Fire Department and EMS, San Angelo Police Department Lake Patrol, multiple volunteer fire departments, and other first responders who assisted.