An Italian woman tragically lost her life last week after being impaled by a swordfish while surfing in Indonesia.
Giulia Manfrini, 36, was surfing in the waters of the Mentawai Islands Regency when the incident occurred. Local media reported that the head of the Mentawai Islands’ Disaster Management Agency, Lahmudin Siregar, described her as being “unexpectedly” struck in the chest by the swordfish’s long, pointed bill, resulting in a wound approximately two inches deep.
Witnesses rushed to her aid and brought her to a local medical center, but despite their efforts, she did not survive. Her official cause of death has not yet been released.
The resort where Manfrini was staying expressed their condolences, stating she died in a “sad accident while surfing one of the friendliest waves in the region.” Hidden Bay Resort Mentawais noted that she died “almost immediately” and that there was “nothing we could do” to save her. They are assisting with the repatriation of her body.
Manfrini was a co-founder of the U.K.-based travel agency Awave, which focuses on surfing experiences. Her business partner shared a heartfelt tribute, calling it a “freak accident” and noting that she “died doing what she loved, in a place that she loved.” James Colston praised Manfrini as the “lifeblood” of the company, celebrating her “infectious enthusiasm for surf, snow, and life,” as well as her memorable smile and laughter.
Fabio Giulivi, the mayor of her hometown Venaria, expressed shock at the news, stating the community feels “powerless” and extending condolences to Manfrini’s family on behalf of the city.
While swordfish attacks are extremely rare, they are not unheard of. It remains unclear whether Manfrini was attacked by the swordfish or if she inadvertently collided with it. The swordfish’s bill is known for its sharp edges, used for both catching prey and self-defense.
