Retired Nurse Dies After Bee Stings in Tragic Incident in Mayo

UPDATE: A retired nurse, Kathleen Devine, tragically died after suffering multiple bee stings while collecting honey in rural Co. Mayo on September 1, 2025. The incident occurred at approximately 5:40 PM near her home in Ballycastle, just 25 kilometers north of Ballina.

Kathleen, in her seventies, was helping her husband, Des Devine, and friends harvest honey when she experienced an allergic reaction to the stings. Local sources indicate she was stung by as few as two bees, yet the effects were devastating. Emergency services were alerted, and the Rescue 118 Irish Coast Guard helicopter was dispatched to assist.

Despite receiving immediate care at the scene, Kathleen was airlifted to Sligo University Hospital but unfortunately succumbed to her injuries. A postmortem examination is scheduled, which will guide the ongoing investigation by local Gardaí.

Officials confirmed that another individual, a woman in her forties who attempted to help Kathleen, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was treated at Mayo University Hospital.

Witnesses reported that the couple was gathering honey at the end of the season when the tragedy struck. “Poor Mrs. Devine got stung and she had an allergic reaction,” a local man recounted. He added, “It was not a swarm of bees; it was a hive. This time of the year, the bees are protective of their honey.”

Tributes are pouring in for Kathleen, described by locals as “a lovely, kind, dear lady” who had dedicated many years to nursing. Her passing has left a significant impact on the community, highlighting the dangers associated with beekeeping.

Local authorities are investigating the circumstances of the incident, and the community mourns the loss of a cherished member. As the investigation continues, residents are reminded to exercise caution around bees, especially during harvesting season.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.