Semi-trailer hauling load of bees overturns on Texas highway

PARIS, TX (KLTV) - An East Texas police department has been buzzing with activity since a truck that was carrying a load of honey bees crashed on a busy intersection.

The semi-trailer rolled over onto its side early Monday morning at Highway 271 and Loop 286 in Paris, Texas.

More than 24 hours after beekeepers and police responded to the scene, cleanup is still underway, according to the Paris Police Department.

Roads have re-opened and debris has been removed but bees remain in the area and PPD says it's likely they'll remain there for some time. Several first responders were stung will responding to the scene.

"We train for many different hazardous material releases which occur in vehicle crashes, we don't recall one for trucks hauling bees," the department says in a Tuesday social media post.

PPD says all those who were stung are OK.

"Beekeepers have set up a hive and will be moving a queen in to try to attract more back to the hive for removal," the department says.

And what if residents happen to find a swarm that attaches to their property?

"Please don't kill them, they are very important to the ecosystem and humans," PPD says.

Instead, call the police department at 903-784-668.

People who are allergic to bee stings are encouraged to avoid the crash area.

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