Upper Austria firefighter dies after hornet sting

A 32-year-old firefighter from Hohenzell has died following a hornet sting in the municipality of Mettmach, located in the Ried im Innkreis district of Upper Austria. The man, who was a well-known member of several local organizations and had been active in the volunteer fire department since 2013, suffered an allergic shock.

Although the victim was known to be allergic to stings from bees, wasps, and hornets, he reportedly did not have his emergency EpiPen within reach at the time of the incident. Despite the rapid arrival of emergency medical services, doctors were unable to save him.

The community of Hohenzell is in mourning, with several local events, including the Reblausfest and a planned fire department vehicle blessing, being canceled as a sign of respect. The deceased was highly regarded in his community for his reliability, humanity, and humor, having recently received the District Fire Service Merit Medal in silver.