Cork man, 50s, stung by swarm of wasps dies

The Macroom man was cutting a hedge at his property

Michael (Mick) Sheehan, Glen Tanar Carriganine, Macroom, Co Cork, died after being stuck by wasps.

A man in his 50s has died after he was stung by a swarm of wasps while gardening at his home in Co Cork.

Michael (Mick) Sheehan of Carriganine, Macroom was cutting a hedge at his property in the county earlier this week when he accidentally disturbed a wasp nest. 

Mr Sheehan, 56, sustained multiple stings. 

He made his way in to his home where he collapsed.

The emergency services were called.

However, when the ambulance arrived, paramedics found that the man was no longer conscious. 

He was treated at the scene but was pronounced dead before he could be transferred to hospital. 

A full autopsy will be carried out at Cork University Hospital.

The local coroner has been informed and an inquest will be held in due course.

It is understood that Mr Sheehan suffered an anaphylactic shock having had a serious reaction to the stings. 

The death is being treated as a tragic accident.

He is survived by his wife Carmel, and children Conor, Katie and Áine.

Mr Sheehan's remains are reposing in Fitz-Geralds Funeral Home, on Thursday November 7 from 6-8pm with prayers.

Requiem Mass on Friday  November 8 at 1.30pm in St Colman’s Church, Macroom, followed by private cremation at The Island Crematorium, Ringaskiddy.