Italian surfer Giulia Manfrini died last week after she was tragically stabbed by the sharp bill of a Needlefish while surfing at Beng Bengs, a fun left off Maskout Island in the Ments.
The incident occurred on 18 October and according to the Siberut Police, the 36-year-old suffered a 5cm wound to the upper left-side of her chest. Witnesses were able to get her out of the water and rushed her to the nearest Community Health Centre, but despite their efforts, she tragically passed away.
Born in Venaria Reale, Piedmont, Guilia was a former professional snowboarder with a passion for surfing. She studies law at university and was the co-founder of an online travel company specialising in surf and snow experiences.
Since her death tributes have poured in across social media. Alexandre Ribas, co-owner of the Hidden Bay Resort in the Ments where Guilia was staying, said that he had never witnessed an incident like this. He added that ‘it all happened so quickly’.
“I was on the boat with her boyfriend when I realized something was wrong and I jumped into the water with my board and paddled towards the group.
“I noticed that she was already on the beach and when I got there she was already unconscious. We tried to revive her, but to no avail, and soon our boat reached the beach and we took Giulia to the hospital in the village of Peipei. When we got there, the doctor in charge told us that she was already lifeless and that nothing could be done.
“A sad fatality. Here, we attach great importance to safety and try to be prepared for any emergency as far as possible like radio and medical first aid kit at our speedboats, even in a remote location. But in this case, I don’t think any measures could have saved her life.”
What is a needlefish?
A needlefish, also known as a long tom, are part of the Belonidae fish family and are piscivorous, meaning that they feed on other fish. Their name derives from their jaws containing numerous needle sharp teeth.
Tracks would like to express its deepest condolences to Giulia’s family and all those impacted by this tragic incident.
