Giulia Manfrini, a 36-year-old from Turin, was enjoying the waves in the Mentawai Islands when she was fatally injured, prompting tributes from the community and those who knew her.
Tragic Surfing Accident Claims Life of Italian Woman in Indonesia

Tragic Surfing Accident Claims Life of Italian Woman in Indonesia
A beloved surfer from Italy perished following a bizarre incident involving a swordfish in Indonesia.
In a tragic incident, Giulia Manfrini, 36, a passionate surfer from Turin, Italy, lost her life while surfing in the breathtaking Mentawai Islands Regency, West Sumatra, Indonesia. Reports indicate that she was impaled by a swordfish while riding the waves on Friday. Eyewitness accounts reveal that two bystanders attempted to administer first aid until she was subsequently transported to a nearby medical facility; unfortunately, her injuries proved fatal.
James Colston, who co-founded a travel agency alongside Manfrini, expressed his sorrow on social media, stating, “Despite the valiant efforts of her partner, local staff, and the medical team, Giulia could not be saved." Lahmudin Siregar, the head of the local disaster management agency, confirmed that the swordfish unexpectedly leaped toward Manfrini, tragically striking her in the chest.
Colston characterized the occurrence as a "freak accident," emphasizing that “we believe she died doing what she loved, in a place that she cherished.” He praised her vibrant spirit and contributions, noting that she was invaluable to the company's ethos. Fabio Giulivi, the mayor of her hometown Venaria Reale, echoed the sentiment, conveying the profound shock and helplessness felt by the community following her untimely death. He remarked on her dual dreams of surfing and entrepreneurship that were beautifully intertwined in her life.
Although swordfish attacks are known to be infrequent, experts acknowledge their potential danger, particularly when the fish feel threatened. Concerns for marine safety and wildlife interactions are likely to follow this unusual tragedy as the surfing community mourns a dedicated and passionate member.
James Colston, who co-founded a travel agency alongside Manfrini, expressed his sorrow on social media, stating, “Despite the valiant efforts of her partner, local staff, and the medical team, Giulia could not be saved." Lahmudin Siregar, the head of the local disaster management agency, confirmed that the swordfish unexpectedly leaped toward Manfrini, tragically striking her in the chest.
Colston characterized the occurrence as a "freak accident," emphasizing that “we believe she died doing what she loved, in a place that she cherished.” He praised her vibrant spirit and contributions, noting that she was invaluable to the company's ethos. Fabio Giulivi, the mayor of her hometown Venaria Reale, echoed the sentiment, conveying the profound shock and helplessness felt by the community following her untimely death. He remarked on her dual dreams of surfing and entrepreneurship that were beautifully intertwined in her life.
Although swordfish attacks are known to be infrequent, experts acknowledge their potential danger, particularly when the fish feel threatened. Concerns for marine safety and wildlife interactions are likely to follow this unusual tragedy as the surfing community mourns a dedicated and passionate member.