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Surfer dies after being impaled by sharp-billed fish in Indonesia

October 23, 2024

An Italian surfer has died after she was reportedly impaled in the chest by a sharp-billed fish.

Giulia Manfrini, 36, was surfing in Indonesia's Mentawai Islands when she died.

Her business partner James Colston called it a "freak accident", CNN reported.

"Unfortunately, even with the brave efforts of her partner, local resort staff and doctors, Giulia couldn't be saved," he said.

"We believe she died doing what she loved, in a place that she loved."

Lahmudin Siregar, acting head of the Mentawai Islands disaster management agency, said Manfrini was struck by a swordfish — but Hidden Bay Resort Mentawais said their "client and friend" had been struck by a needlefish. Both types of fish have long, sharp bills.

State news agency Antara said a medical report showed Manfrini suffered a five centimetre deep wound to her upper left chest.

"Giulia couldn't travel without people falling in love with her smile, laugh and endless stoke," Colston said.

According to the online Encyclopedia of Surfing, "stoke" is an "enduring surf slang expression meaning excited, pleased, happy, thrilled".

Colston said: "We love you Giulia. I am so sorry to say goodbye."

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