AURILLAC, France - A rare and aggressive bee attack in the southern French town of Aurillac left 24 people injured, including three in critical condition, local authorities reported on Sunday [1][2][3].

The incident occurred over a 30-minute period on Sunday morning when passersby in the town center were suddenly assaulted by a swarm of bees [1][3]. Emergency services quickly responded to the scene, with firefighters and medical teams rushing to treat the victims while police established a security perimeter [1][2].

Pierre Mathonier, the mayor of Aurillac, told French broadcaster BFM TV, "The three people in critical condition were sent to a local hospital and their condition has since improved" [1]. One of the critically injured victims, a 78-year-old man, had to be resuscitated after suffering a cardiorespiratory arrest [6][7].

The mayor suggested that the attack may have been triggered by Asian hornets threatening beehives installed on the roof terrace of a downtown hotel more than a decade ago [3][6]. "It raises questions about the presence of hives in the city center," Mathonier said, adding that he had "never experienced such behavior from bees" [8].

Lieutenant-Colonel Michel Cayla, head of the local fire services, described the incident as unprecedented. "In terms of the number of victims, the panic among the people and the severity of the stings, I have never seen anything like it," he stated [6][7].

The unusual nature of this attack has raised concerns about bee behavior and urban beekeeping practices. Experts suggest that the presence of Asian hornets, an invasive species in Europe, may have contributed to the bees' aggressive behavior [3][13].

As a precautionary measure, the beehives have been relocated to prevent further incidents [4]. Local authorities are investigating the matter to determine the exact cause of the attack and to implement measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

This incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between urban development and wildlife, particularly in the context of bee conservation efforts and the challenges posed by invasive species.