Chennai (India), April 11, 2025 – In a bizarre and tragic incident in Chennai, a 29-year-old man named Manikandan lost his life in a freak accident while fishing in Keelavalam lake, Madurantakam, as reported by the Times of India. Rather than drowning, Manikandan succumbed to suffocation after a fish he had caught wriggled into his throat, blocking his airway. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, underscores the unpredictability of seemingly routine activities.
Manikandan, a daily wage worker known for his skill in catching fish with his bare hands, ventured alone into the shallow waters of the lake, a place he frequently visited with friends. On this occasion, without companions to assist, he caught two fish and made a fatal decision to hold one in his hand while placing the other in his mouth. As he swam back to shore, the fish in his mouth began to thrash, lodging itself in his airway. Struggling to breathe, Manikandan emerged from the water and attempted to remove the fish but was unable to dislodge it due to its thorny protrusions.
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In a desperate bid for help, he ran toward Araiyappakkam village but collapsed before reaching assistance. Locals who gathered tried to extract the fish from his throat but were unsuccessful. Manikandan was rushed to Chengalpet Government Medical College Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead on arrival. According to police, the absence of his usual fishing companions left him vulnerable, with no one nearby to intervene.
The tragedy has stunned the local community, where Manikandan was known for his fishing prowess. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers that can arise in unexpected ways, even during familiar tasks.
Key Points: Tragic Chennai Fishing Accident
- Freak Incident in Chennai: 29-year-old Manikandan died after a fish he caught lodged in his throat while fishing in Keelavalam lake, Madurantakam.
- Cause of Death: The fish, placed in his mouth while swimming, wriggled into his airway, choking him; its thorny protrusions prevented removal.
- Alone and Helpless: Fishing without his usual companions, Manikandan collapsed while seeking help in Araiyappakkam village.
- Failed Rescue Efforts: Locals and doctors at Chengalpet Government Medical College Hospital could not save him; he was declared dead on arrival.
- Local Context: A skilled fisherman, Manikandan often fished with friends, but his solo trip left him vulnerable to the tragic accident.
