Tributes Paid to Italian Surfer Killed by Swordfish in Indonesia

SUMATRA, Indonesia — Tributes are pouring in for Giulia Manfrini, a 36-year-old Italian surfer, who tragically died after being struck by a swordfish while surfing off the western coast of Indonesia. The incident occurred last week in the waters surrounding the Mentawai Islands, a popular surf destination off Sumatra’s coast.

Manfrini was surfing near Masokut Island when she was suddenly attacked by a swordfish, known for its long, sharp bill. The fish leaped from the water and struck her in the chest, inflicting a fatal wound. According to Lahmudin Siregar, the acting head of the Mentawai disaster mitigation agency, the wound was approximately five centimeters deep.

“She was rushed to the nearest health clinic, but unfortunately, she did not survive,” Siregar told state news agency Antara on Tuesday. Despite the efforts to save her, Manfrini succumbed to her injuries soon after arriving at the clinic.

Manfrini had been staying at a resort in the region, known for its beautiful surf spots. The Hidden Bay Resort Mentawais, where she was a frequent guest, expressed their sorrow in an Instagram post on Monday, remembering her as someone deeply passionate about surfing. “She was hit in the chest by a needlefish and died almost immediately,” the resort’s statement read. “She continued to do what she loved best and without suffering. May you follow your path of light and may you surf the eternal waves on the other side.”

James Colston, the co-founder of AWAVE Travel, a travel agency co-founded by Manfrini, also paid tribute to her. In a heartfelt statement, he described her as someone who “died doing what she loved, in a place that she loved.” Colston called the incident a “freak accident” and extended his condolences to her family and friends.

This tragic accident has shocked the surfing community, particularly as it occurred in the same region where American professional surfer Mikala Jones died last year in a separate surfing incident. Jones, aged 44, passed away after a fatal accident while riding waves in Indonesia, highlighting the unpredictable dangers of the sport.

Manfrini’s death is a reminder of the risks associated with ocean activities, even in idyllic and well-loved surf spots. Despite the dangers, those close to her emphasized that she lived her life passionately and passed away doing what she loved most.

The surfing community, friends, and family continue to mourn the loss of a vibrant life cut short.