Nearly 2 million bees let loose after semi crash on interstate, driver stung hundreds of times

VALLEY CITY, N.D. (KVLY/Gray News) - Authorities in North Dakota said Thursday a semitruck carrying hundreds of beehives was involved in a crash.

According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, the crash occurred Thursday evening on Interstate 94.

The semitruck was merging onto the interstate when another driver moved to the left lane to pass. Troopers said the truck swerved to avoid a collision when the driver of the other vehicle made an abrupt move, causing the semitruck to roll over after it entered the median.

The semitruck was carrying a trailer with 600 to 800 beehives, which were housing more than 2 million bees, the state patrol said.

The driver was able to get out of the rolled truck but was immediately attacked by hundreds of bees. The driver ran to the nearby Sheyenne River to get the bees off. Authorities said he was later taken to the hospital for treatment.

A portion of I-94 had to be closed at the crash scene for hours while crews cleaned up and removed the beehives.

The state patrol said the driver of the other vehicle involved stayed at the scene. Area beekeepers also helped with the cleanup as residents who were allergic to bees were advised to stay inside.