A US tourist diving off the coast of Indonesia is suspected to be dead after body parts believed to be hers were discovered inside a shark. Colleen Monfore, aged 68, was part of a group of seven exploring the waters near Pulau Reong island on September 26 when she was swept away by strong currents. Despite the diving guide’s efforts to retrieve her, she was unable to be rescued, leading to an extensive eight-day search operation that eventually had to be called off.
Last week, a fisherman in Timor-Leste, 75 miles from where Monfore disappeared, caught a shark that exhibited signs of distress. Upon examining the shark’s stomach, authorities found human body parts, fragments of a wetsuit, and a bathing suit. While initial reports suggested the body parts belonged to Monfore, officials are working to confirm the identity, considering the possibility of other missing persons.
Authorities in East Timor have reached out to Indonesian counterparts to coordinate efforts and are urging individuals with missing loved ones linked to diving activities to come forward. Muhammad Saleh Goro, Head of the Regional Technical Implementation Unit, stated that collaboration with the Indonesian Embassy is underway to verify the findings and determine the victim’s identity, suspected to be a diver based on the equipment recovered.
Despite speculations surrounding a shark attack, acquaintances of Monfore, including Kim Sass, disputed the claims, asserting that shark stomachs break down food rapidly, making it unlikely for identifiable body parts to remain. Sass contended that Monfore likely succumbed to a medical condition rather than a shark incident, stressing her proficiency in diving and downplaying the role of marine life in her demise.
Shark attacks in the region are rare occurrences, with minimal incidents over several centuries. Colleen’s husband expressed remorse over the shark’s fate and the negative portrayal of the creatures in light of the incident. The Independent has sought further comments from Sass for clarification on the matter.