Woman Impaled by Swordfish on Surfing Trip [Video]

In a tragic and highly unusual incident, Italian surfer Giulia Manfrini, 36, has died after being struck by a swordfish while surfing off the coast of West Sumatra, Indonesia. The accident occurred near the waters of Ombak Bengbeng, close to Masokut Island, this past Friday.

Lahmudin Siregar, acting head of the Mentawai Islands’ Disaster Management Agency, told local news agency Antara that the swordfish “unexpectedly jumped towards Manfrini and pierced her chest.” Despite immediate efforts to save her, she succumbed to her injuries.

Manfrini was a prominent figure in the surfing community, with thousands of followers on social media; co-founder of AWAVE, a surf travel agency; and a dedicated surf coach. Her contributions to the world of surfing, both in Europe and internationally, were widely recognized.

West Sumatra is a popular destination for international surfers, with its pristine waves attracting thrill seekers from around the globe. Despite the province’s popularity, human fatalities involving …