SINGAPORE: The surfing community is mourning the loss of 36-year-old Giulia Manfrini, an Italian surfer who tragically died after being struck by a swordfish while surfing off the west coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, on 18 October 2024. The incident occurred in the stunning waters of the Mentawai Islands Regency—known for its excellent surfing conditions.
According to the acting head of the Mentawai Islands’ disaster management agency, Lahmudin Siregar, the accident unfolded when a swordfish unexpectedly jumped out of the water and pierced Ms Manfrini’s chest. “It was a freak accident,” he noted, revealing the shocking nature of her injuries.
Witnesses Alexandre Ribas and Massimo Ferro rushed to her aid and performed first aid before taking her to the Pei Pei Pasakiat Taileleu Health Centre. Sadly, despite their efforts, she could not be saved. Medical reports indicated that she suffered a 5cm-deep wound and displayed signs of drowning.
Her body has been sent to Padang City for repatriation to Italy. The news has left her hometown of Venaria Reale in shock. Mayor Fabio Giuvili took to Facebook to express the community’s grief. He stated, “The tragedy that took her life so prematurely has left us feeling powerless.”
Ms Manfrini was not just an avid surfer; she had also co-founded a travel agency, AWAVE Travel, focusing on sports vacations. Her business partner, James Colston, shared an emotional tribute on the company’s Instagram, remembering her as “the lifeblood” of their venture. He said, “We believe she died doing what she loved, in a place that she loved.”
Countless lives were touched by her enthusiasm for adventure, and the surfing world has truly lost a bright spirit.