Roughly 25 million bees are safe and sound after a semi-truck broke down in Parleys Canyon on Tuesday.
The Unified Fire Authority said the truck, which was hauling about 480 beehives, was stopped in the canyon due to mechanical issues.
While mechanics worked to get the truck up and running again, firefighters with Unified Fire and the Millcreek Fire Department kept the bees cool and calm by spraying a hose over the trailer.
"With the unseasonable hot temperatures yesterday, the bees were at risk of dying if the truck stayed parked in the sun for too long, as there wouldn't be a cool breeze from the truck moving along the highway," said UFA. The
Unified Fire Authority said each hive contained roughly 40,000 to 60,000 bees. However, no firefighters were stung during their cooling efforts.
"Honestly, one of the coolest reminders that first responders don't just save people," added Unified Fire. "Sometimes, they save 25 million bees too."
Haminator5000 on May 15th, 2026 at 18:25 UTC »
the way bee yoda would have felt a crying out in the force if those firepeople didn't save the bees 😰😅
best_of_badgers on May 15th, 2026 at 18:02 UTC »
A rare “giant bee spill” near miss!