Millions of bees escape semi in Utah accident

SALT LAKE CITY - A portion of an interstate in southern Utah has reopened after a truck hauling millions of bees overturned, freeing the insects.

Angry swarms of bees ranging in the millions closed down part of Interstate 15 Sunday after a semi hauling the bees rolled on the freeway, CBS News affiliate KUTV-TV reported.

Officials said 25 million angry bees burst forth from the semi after the wreck near St. George, stinging people injured in the accident.

Authorities closed the southbound lanes of the interstate roadway near St. George for several hours Sunday night after the crash. Utah Highway Patrol Cpl. Todd Johnson says the road reopened early Monday morning.

Johnson says many of the insects dispersed, but the truck's driver and passenger — and at least two law enforcement officers — were stung. No serious injuries were reported. He says beekeepers were brought in to help.

The hives have since been moved to nearby pastures in hopes the bees will return. Authorities had been recommending drivers in the area keep their windows closed.

The cause of the accident remains unknown. No other vehicles were involved, and there are no other reports of injuries.