Tributes are pouring in for Giulia Manfrini, a 36-year-old surfer from Turin, Italy, who tragically lost her life after being impaled by a swordfish while surfing off the coast of the Mentawai Islands in Indonesia.

Reports indicate that the incident occurred on Friday. Witnesses recall attempting to render first aid to Manfrini after the swordfish struck her in the chest. She was subsequently taken to a medical facility for emergency care.

James Colston, who co-founded a travel agency with Manfrini, shared on Instagram, “Despite the brave efforts of her partner, local resort staff, and doctors, Giulia couldn’t be saved.” He emphasized the suddenness of the tragedy, stating that the acting head of the Mentawai Islands Regency Regional Disaster Management Agency, Lahmudin Siregar, informed them that a freak accident had occurred while she was surfing. “Unexpectedly, a swordfish jumped towards Manfrini and struck her directly in the chest,” Siregar noted.

Colston described the incident as a “freak accident,” expressing that “we believe she died doing what she loved, in a place she adored.” He added, “Giulia was the lifeblood of this company, and her infectious enthusiasm for surf, snow, and life will be remembered by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.”

Fabio Giulivi, the mayor of Manfrini’s hometown, Venaria Reale, expressed his shock at the news, noting, “Her death has left us reeling and feeling powerless in the face of this tragedy that took her life far too early.” He highlighted that surfing and launching a travel agency had been her “double dream.”

While research indicates that swordfish attacks are rare, it is noted that they can pose significant dangers if provoked.