NEED TO KNOW
Fifty bee colonies at a Pennsylvania honey farm were destroyed in a suspected arson fire
The owners are offering a $1,000 reward for information as police investigate
At this time, there are no suspects, but the owners have vowed to rebuild alongside a supportive community
A Pennsylvania family is reeling from a devastating fire at their honey farm that they believe was deliberately set; the blaze destroyed dozens of beehives and killed tens of thousands of bees.
Bedillion Honey Farm, owned by Sara and Mark Bedillion, shared the devastating news in a Facebook post on Thursday, Feb. 26, alongside images of charred hive boxes and melted equipment at one of their bee yard locations in Industry, Pa.
Bedillion Honey Farm in Idustry, Pa., shared images of destroyed bee hives
Credit: Bedillion Honey Farm
“Today our hearts are heavy,” the couple wrote, explaining that Mark and their daughter Lily had been conducting routine checks and delivering pollen substitute patties when they discovered the destruction. The hives had been burned to the ground.
According to the post, some hives appeared to be set on fire where they stood, while others seemed to be dragged into a pile and ignited. “Surely there was a lot of smoke from the beeswax and wood, we are hoping someone may have seen something,” the caption added.
Bedillion Honey Farm in Industry, Pa., shared images of destroyed bee hives
Credit: Bedillion Honey Farm
Because of the cold temperatures, the bees had been tightly clustered together for warmth, making them especially vulnerable. “Because it’s been so cold, our bees were clustered together and helpless,” the farm shared. Under an image of the remaining ash piles, they wrote, “After winter solstice, the hives start raising babies. These hives were just starting to get ready for the spring.”
The couple explained that the loss was significant, with the yard housing an estimated 50 colonies. In addition to the bees, most of their equipment at that location was also destroyed.
In a follow-up post on Feb. 27, the Bedillions said they have been “overwhelmed by the love and support” from neighbors and customers.
“Our family is extremely grateful for your kindness and messages,” the post read. “Though it has been demoralizing, we are continuing with our regular spring program in caring for the rest of our hives, and we will keep you posted if we learn more.” The couple also confirmed that a GoFundMe is being created by “a kind community member and neighbor,” Cheryl Sower.
PEOPLE spoke with Sara and Mark Bedillion, who said that while they are devastated, they have been deeply moved by the outpouring of community support during this difficult time.
Bedillion Honey Farm in Industry, Pa., shared images of destroyed bee hives, says they will rebuild and start again
Credit: Bedillion Honey Farm
Still, the path forward will require rebuilding from scratch.
“We’ll start over, that’s all we can do,” Mark said. “But we really appreciate the support we’ve been getting from the community. We’ll start again.”
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A police report has been filed, and the family is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction. They are working with local authorities but say there are currently no leads.
Read the original article on People