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Italian Surfer Giulia Manfrini Dies in Needlefish Accident in Indonesia

Italian Surfer Giulia Manfrini Dies in Needlefish Accident in Indonesia

Giulia Manfrini, a 36-year-old Italian surfer, tragically died after a needlefish injury off the coast of Indonesia’s West Sumatra. The surfing accident occurred in the Mentawai Islands, a remote paradise popular with surfers worldwide.

Fatal Surfing Accident Shocks Indonesia

Manfrini was surfing near the southern part of Siberut Island when the accident took place. Around 9:30 a.m. local time, a sharp-billed fish impaled her in the chest, according to Indonesia’s state news agency, Antara.

The swordfish accident caused a stab wound five centimetres deep in her upper left chest. Despite efforts by her partner, resort staff, and local doctors, they could not save her life.

Rare Needlefish Injury Claims a Life

Reports from the Hidden Bay Resort Mentawais identified the culprit fish as a needlefish, known for its long, sharp bill. Witnesses at the scene acted quickly and provided first aid. However, the injury proved fatal almost immediately.

Needlefish and swordfish are both capable of jumping out of the water. While these fish can cause injuries, deaths from such accidents remain extremely rare.

Manfrini was transported to the Pei Pei Pasakiat Taileleu health center, but her condition was beyond medical help, according to Siberut police.

Community Mourns Giulia Manfrini

Giulia Manfrini co-founded AWAVE Travel, a company that organised surfing trips to hotspots like the Mentawai Islands. Her business partner, James Colston, confirmed the tragic news via Instagram.

“We believe she died doing what she loved, in a place she loved,” Colston wrote. “Even with everyone’s brave efforts, Giulia couldn’t be saved.”

The company website highlights that Giulia was also a former professional snowboarder. Her passion for chasing waves took her to surf spots around the world.

“Giulia’s smile, laugh, and spirit touched everyone she met,” Colston added. “We love you, Giulia. I am so sorry to say goodbye.”

Hometown of Venaria Reale Sends Condolences

The mayor of Venaria Reale, a town near Turin in northern Italy where Manfrini’s family lives, expressed his sympathy.

“The news of her death shocks us and leaves us feeling powerless,” Mayor Fabio Giulivi said in a public statement. “To mum Chiara, dad Giorgio, and everyone who loved her, we send our heartfelt condolences.”

Also Read: Jacques-Cartier Bridge Closed Amid Environmental Protest

A Tragic Loss in the Surfing Community

The sudden loss of Giulia Manfrini has deeply affected the local community and fellow surfers. Tributes continue to pour in for her from both the Mentawai Islands and Italy.

Though fish-related injuries like this needle fish accident are uncommon, her death serves as a reminder of the unpredictable dangers in the water. The tragic incident has cast a shadow over the popular surfing destination in Indonesia.

Manfrini’s passion for adventure will live on through her work with AWAVE Travel and the many lives she touched.

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