Swarm of bees help alleged shoplifter escape

SEDALIA, Mo. -- A shoplifter released a swarm of honeybees in a Kmart restroom, creating a diversion that allowed him to escape, authorities said.

Store security spotted the man shoplifting Monday and followed him to the restroom to confront him. When the worker opened the door, about 100 bees buzzed out.

The suspect apparently let the bees out while he was in the restroom.

"He probably started yelling 'Bees! Bees!' or whatever the case may be, then created that big diversion, then got out," said Cmdr. John DeGonia, of the Sedalia Police Department.

According to a police report, the man stole about $60 worth of CDs, perfume, batteries and a pair scissors.

Store employees pulled cans of bug spray off store shelves to kill the bees. No one was stung.