An Italian couple fell more than 80 feet while taking selfies at a popular waterfall on the Indonesian island of Bali over the weekend, killing a 49-year-old man. Although his girlfriend survived the fall, the incident is being seen as a cautionary tale for tourists to be extra careful when visiting remote sports on the island.
Giancarlo Zicari, a Roman engineer, and his girlfriend Ilaria Biagi, 25, were posing on a viewing platform at the top of the Gajah Mas waterfalls at around 11:30 a.m. on Sunday. There were two wooden chairs on the platform next to an iron railing when the incident occurred, and they were reportedly leaning on the railing, but it suddenly collapsed.
According to Bali SunThe couple were staying at the Homm Saranam Hotel in the Bedugul Highlands but had gone on a day trip to hike the area around the waterfall. Biagi survived a fall with what is thought to be a minor head injury and abrasions to his body, and was able to climb back to the top of the waterfall to seek help.
Tabanan Police Public Relations Director Iptu I Nyoman Berata later confirmed to reporters that Zicari died at the scene.
“The victim was taken to Prof. Ngoerah Hospital and his family refused to conduct an autopsy,” Berata said. “The victim underwent an external examination at Baturiti Community Health Centre before being taken to Prof. Ngoerah General Hospital.”
Local authorities and community officials declined to comment on the condition of the platform or the railing, and there was no word on any apparent liability.
But before Zicari’s death, another tragic incident occurred last month when a 17-year-old Chinese tourist suffered serious head and neck injuries while trying to descend a dangerous cliff-side hiking trail on the island. Tourists are therefore reminded to be careful when visiting Bali’s remote natural wonders. This includes using railings, fences, rope holds or other so-called “safety” devices, both in the jungle and on the shore.