Tragic: Manfrini was surfing in waters off West Sumatra when the incident happened. — The Straits Times/ANN
An Italian surfer died after being impaled by a swordfish in the waters off West Sumatra.
Giulia Manfrini, 36, was surfing at the Mentawai Islands Regency – a popular surfing destination – when the incident occurred.
The acting head of the islands’ disaster management agency said the swordfish “unexpectedly jumped towards Manfrini and pierced her chest”, reported Indonesian news agency Antara.
According to the police, Manfrini’s friends Alexandre Ribas and Massimo Ferro administered first aid and took her to the hospital, but she could not be saved.
Medical reports showed that she suffered a 5cm-deep wound to her chest and showed signs of drowning, added Antara.
Her body has been transported to Padang City and will be repatriated to Italy.
Fabio Giuvili, the mayor of Manfrini’s hometown Venaria Reale, said the tragedy has left the town shocked and helpless.
Manfrini had “long fulfilled her double dream of surfing – her favourite sport – and opening a travel agency for sports holidays”, said Giuvili in an Oct 19 Facebook post.
James Colston, who co-founded Awave travel agency with Manfrini, shared the news on the company’s Instagram page.
Manfrini had “suffered a freak accident” and could not be saved despite the efforts of her partner, doctors and resort staff, said Colston.
“We believe she died doing what she loved, in a place that she loved,” he said in the post.
“Giulia was the lifeblood of this company and her infectious enthusiasm for surf, snow and life will be remembered by all who came in contact with her.” — The Straits Times/ANN
