Giulia Manfrini, a 36-year-old Italian surfing coach and Instagram influencer, tragically died after being fatally impaled by a swordfish during a surfing incident in Indonesia earlier this month.
The incident occurred at Masokut Island in the Mentawai archipelago, a popular surfing destination on the west coast of Sumatra.
Eyewitnesses reported that a swordfish leapt out of the water, striking Manfrini in the chest. According to reports from The Standard, she sustained a 5cm (1.96 inches) deep stab wound on the left side of her chest.
Surfers at the scene managed to transport her to Pei Pei Pasakiat Taileleu Health Centre, but she succumbed to her injuries shortly after. Massimo Ferro and Alexandre Ribas, among those who provided first aid, witnessed the tragic event unfold.
The Siberut Police indicated that Manfrini signalled for help to witnesses nearby.
Recent updates from Stabmag revealed that her medical report indicated she was foaming at the nose, a sign of oxygen deprivation from drowning.
The news of Manfrini’s untimely death sent shockwaves through her hometown of Venaria Reale, Italy. Mayor Fabio Giulivi expressed the community’s sorrow on Instagram, stating, “The entire Venarian community is gathering around Giulia Manfrini’s family. The news of her death has left us shocked and makes us feel powerless in front of the tragedy that took her life so prematurely.”
Her Instagram page has since been flooded with heartfelt tributes. One follower poignantly wrote, “The sea that gave you so much has taken your life.
Rest in peace.” A former volleyball coach shared memories of their time together, emphasising how deeply she will be missed, stating, “She became like my new Italian daughter.”
Surf charter operator Naga Laut Mentawai Blue also paid tribute, describing Manfrini as someone with “deep love and overflowing excitement for life.”
Manfrini was a former professional snowboarder who travelled the world pursuing extreme sports. Although she studied law at university, she shifted her career path to become a surfing instructor. Through her social media presence, she gained a following of 24,000 fans, sharing her adventures in and out of the surf.
Additionally, she co-founded an online travel company specialising in surf and snow experiences.
Her body is currently being prepared for transport back to Italy.
