ALTUS -- Samples from bee hives discovered Wednesday inside the steam engine on display at Missile Park and at the Rotary Community Center have been sent to the federal lab in Arizona, which will determine whether they are the feared Africanized honey bees -- popularly known as "killer bees."

The hive at Missile Park was removed Wednesday night. If the bees turn out to be common European honey bees, the hive will simply be relocated, but if they are confirmed as killer bees the hive will be destroyed.

The presence of killer bees in Altus was confirmed last week when a hive at Friendship Inn found Aug. 21 was identified as the species which can attack without provocation, causing a serious and sometimes fatal reaction in some victims.

About 10 workers in Tillman County were attacked in early August, while working north of Tipton. Seven of those were rushed to the hospital with between 50 to 100 stings. DNA testing confirmed the bees to be Africanized honey bees.

Results to confirm what species of bees are at Missile Park may take anywhere from a week to 10 days. For now the steam engine site has been taped up and is off limits to the numerous children who play in the area.

Samples from the hive found Wednesday afternoon at the Rotary Community Center building, located between Altus High School and City Park, are also to be tested in Arizona. The back side of the building has been taped off.

"Our purpose is not to get the people fearful or excited," said Altus Police Chief Mike Patterson. "We want our citizens informed that every bee should not be considered African, just like every snake or spider is not poisonous."

But, he said, the public should be very aware of the presence of the bees and their potential danger.

According to Gary Grose of the Tipton Valley Honey Company, "killer bees" usually do not become agitated unless they are protecting larvae in the hive or they are provoked. If you uncover a bee hive, he said it is important to be careful and under no circumstances try to remove the hive yourself. Hives suspected of being killer bees should be reported to law enforcement.

Africanized honey bees are slightly smaller than European honey bees and produce less honey. They`re also far more aggressive and persistent in their attacks. If you should find yourself under attack by the bees, experts say you should cover your face and head, and run for shelter.