Timeline of Tourist's Death After Being Swept Away by Waves at Madasari Beach, Pangandaran

A tourist from Garut Regency, Siti Atika (58), died after being swept away by large waves at Madasari Beach, Cimerak District, Pangandaran Regency, West Java, on Friday (15/5/2026).

The unfortunate incident occurred in an area that had been designated as a danger zone and swimming was prohibited.

The Acting Head of Public Relations of the Pangandaran Police, Aiptu Yusdiana, confirmed the incident and stated that the victim’s body had been handed over to the family.

Despite the presence of warning signs, the group was quite close to the shoreline.

Madasari Beach is known for its strong waves and many large rocks, so certain areas are categorised as no-go zones for swimming or being too close to the waves.

Unbeknownst to them, a large wave suddenly came and swept over the area where the victim was standing. In a matter of seconds, Siti Atika was swept away by the wave into the middle of the sea.

“The victim was carried away by the current to the middle. When there was a receding current, the family and members of the Karang Taruna (youth organisation) were then able to provide assistance,” explained Aiptu Yusdiana.

After being pulled to shore, the victim was immediately evacuated to a community health centre for medical treatment. However, the victim’s condition was very critical. During the journey to the health facility, the victim was pronounced dead.

“She died on the way. The victim suffered abrasions and bruises on the right side of her face,” said Yusdiana.

The Pangandaran Police are again urging tourists to always obey the safety signs that have been installed.

Madasari Beach is officially a dangerous area and swimming is 100% prohibited due to the extreme wave and rock characteristics.

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