In a heartbreaking incident, 16-year-old Italian teenager Maria Antonietta Cutillo lost her life after her phone fell into the bathtub while she was on a call with a friend. This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by our reliance on electronic devices, even during moments of relaxation.
A Routine Moment Turns Fatal
Maria, who lived in Avellino, Italy, had been enjoying a bath at her parents’ home when the accident occurred. Reports suggest that she was holding her phone, which was plugged in and charging, during the call. Tragically, the device slipped from her hand and fell into the water, resulting in a short circuit that led to her electrocution.
At the time of the incident, Maria’s family was not at home. Her friend, who had been on the video call with her, became alarmed when the connection abruptly ended. Acting quickly, the friend contacted emergency services.
A Community in Mourning
Maria’s body was taken to the morgue at the Moscati Hospital in Avellino for an autopsy, and local authorities began an investigation into the incident. The teenager’s father, a well-known butcher in the region of Irpinia, has been mourning the loss of his beloved daughter along with the entire community.
Maria’s friend, devastated by the incident, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media. Posting on TikTok, the friend wrote:
“You flew to heaven, my love. You left screaming my name during a video call. I will never forget that moment.
“The last call, the last laugh, the last silly things we shared—it all happened today, my baby. While we were talking, this happened.
“I can still hear your voice calling my name, I can still see your big green eyes and your laugh. You were a spectacular friend. Now, the desk next to mine will be empty, and no one will ever replace you.
“I miss you with all my heart.”
Rare, But Not Unheard Of
While electrocution caused by a phone is uncommon, incidents like Maria’s highlight the potential risks of using charging devices near water.
In another incident in 2023, 27-year-old Thai man Wanchai Deengam was electrocuted while sleeping with his phone charging. Investigations revealed multiple devices, including a smartwatch and kitchen appliances, were plugged into an overloaded extension cord, leading to a short circuit.
Similarly, in 2020, a schoolgirl in France lost her life after her charging phone slipped into her bathtub.
A Stark Reminder
These tragic events underscore the need for caution when using electronic devices near water or while they are charging. Though such occurrences are rare, they serve as a reminder that even routine habits can pose unexpected risks.
Maria’s untimely death has left her community in deep sorrow, with her memory living on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.