Giulia Manfrini, a 36-year-old Italian surfer, tragically lost her life last week in Indonesia after being struck by a swordfish while surfing near Masokut Island. According to local reports, the accident occurred around 9:30 a.m. as Manfrini was surfing.
The head of the Mentawai Islands Regency Regional Disaster Management Agency, Lahmudin Siregar, explained that the swordfish unexpectedly leaped from the water and pierced her chest. Despite being rushed to the PeiPei Health Center, Manfrini sustained severe injuries, including a 2-inch-deep stab wound to her upper left chest, and later succumbed to the injuries.
Swordfish attacks are extremely rare, but the sharp, spear-like bill of these predatory fish can cause fatal injuries in the few incidents that do occur. In 2015, a boat captain in Hawaii died in a similar manner after being speared by a swordfish.
Despite the rarity of such accidents, the risks are real, particularly for those who frequent waters where swordfish are present. In Manfrini’s case, the wound proved too severe, and her condition worsened due to water in her lungs, leading to her death.
Surfer Giulia Manfrini Tragically Killed by Swordfish While Surfing Near Indonesia’s Mentawai Islands
The Mentawai Islands, where the accident took place, are known globally as a premier surfing destination, attracting surfers from around the world with their warm waters and ideal conditions. Manfrini herself was deeply involved in the surfing community as the co-founder of AWAVE, a travel company offering luxury surf trips to remote locations, including the Mentawai Islands.
At the time of the accident, she was staying at the Hidden Bay Resort, a popular spot in the Northern Mentawai Islands, where she had been enjoying the region’s famous waves.
In the wake of the tragedy, Hidden Bay Resort expressed its condolences, stating that they had provided support in handling the procedures for repatriating Manfrini’s body. Her friends, clients, and colleagues took to social media to share their memories and pay tribute to her life.
James Colston, co-founder of AWAVE, spoke about Manfrini’s infectious enthusiasm for surfing and life, remembering her as the heart of their company and someone whose presence touched everyone she met.
One of the witnesses to the accident, Massimo Ferro, who had been on the trip with Manfrini, shared a series of photos and personal reflections online.
He wrote about the close bond they had formed and expressed gratitude for having been with her until the final moments. Tributes like Ferro’s poured in from all over, as those who knew Manfrini remembered her as a passionate and joyful individual who brought warmth and energy to every aspect of her life.
