A 16-year-old girl from Italy tragically lost her life after her mobile phone fell into the bathtub while she was talking to a friend on a call.
In modern times, smartphones have become such a constant presence in our lives that they accompany us even in the most personal moments. However, this habit can turn life-threatening, as illustrated by the heartbreaking story of Italian teenager Maria Antonietta Cutillo. Her tragic accident underscores the serious risks tied to using electronic devices in water-exposed environments.
Cutillo, a resident of Avellino, Italy, was taking a bath in her parents’ home, seeking relaxation when disaster struck. The young girl was reportedly charging her mobile phone while speaking to a friend. During the call, the device accidentally slipped from her hand and fell into the bathtub, causing a fatal short circuit after coming into contact with the water. The current from the charging phone tragically electrocuted her.
At the time of the accident, it was reported by local media that Maria’s family members were not present at home. Her friend, who was on the other end of the call when the line suddenly disconnected, became alarmed and promptly contacted emergency services for assistance. Paramedics arrived at the scene but were unable to save her.
Following the incident, Cutillo’s body was transported to the Moscati Hospital morgue in Avellino for a full autopsy. The local police also launched an investigation to determine the precise cause of the accident and confirm the initial findings.
The girl’s father, a prominent butcher in the regional capital of Irpinia, was well known in the community. The devastating loss has deeply impacted both family and friends, especially the friend who was speaking to Maria during the incident. The heartbroken friend took to TikTok to express her grief and shared a touching tribute:
“You flew to heaven, my love. You left while screaming my name during our video call. I will never forget that moment. The last call, our last laugh together, our final nonsense—it all happened today. As we talked, this tragedy struck. I can still hear your voice echoing in my head, screaming my name. I see the image of your big green eyes and remember your beautiful laugh. You were an incredible friend. Now, the school desk next to mine will remain empty. No one can ever replace you. I miss you so much, my heart. Your memory will always stay with me.”
Though rare, electrocutions linked to mobile phones have tragically occurred before. Similar incidents emphasize the danger of mixing electricity and water, even with commonly used devices. In 2023, a 27-year-old man named Wanchai Deengam from Thailand lost his life while sleeping next to a charging phone. Reports indicated his phone, smartwatch, and multiple appliances were all plugged into a single overloaded extension socket. Police determined a short circuit may have caused the fatal electrocution.
Another comparable incident occurred in France in 2020 when a young schoolgirl suffered a similar fate. She was taking a bath while her charging phone slipped from her chest into the water, causing a fatal short circuit.
These cases serve as stark reminders that while smartphones are integral to daily life, their misuse can be life-threatening. Safety measures, such as avoiding the use of charging devices near water and using proper adaptors, can help prevent such devastating accidents in the future.