Two tourists die after tree falls in Bali's Monkey Forest

In Bali, Indonesia, a tragic event unfolded at the Ubud Monkey Forest sanctuary, where two female tourists lost their lives due to a large tree collapsing on them. This incident occurred around midday local time, specifically on Tuesday, December 9, 2024. The victims were identified as a 32-year-old woman from France and a 42-year-old woman from South Korea, both of whom were visiting the popular tourist destination known for its long-tailed macaques. Eyewitness reports indicated that strong winds and heavy rains contributed to the tree's fall. Tourists in the area were seen fleeing in panic as the tree crashed down, with many families, including those with young children, scrambling for safety. A small boy was notably recorded escaping unharmed just moments after the incident. Emergency services quickly responded to the scene, but despite the efforts of staff and other tourists to assist, it was too late for the two women who were struck. Local authorities are still in the process of determining the total number of injuries resulting from this occurrence. The immediate environment had to be evacuated, and the sanctuary was subsequently closed to the public. I Wayan Lilir, the general manager of the Monkey Forest, provided insight into the conditions leading up to the disaster, explaining that a sudden onset of strong winds and rain had preceded the tree's collapse. Witnesses documented the chaos, with one recording showing the path littered with debris following the accident. A traditional cleansing ceremony is expected to be held at a later time to address the spiritual implications of the tragedy. Monkey Forest is a well-known site that attracts visitors eager to interact with the local monkeys, with many traveling significant distances from other areas, such as Kuta, to experience the sanctuary. This unfortunate event marks a somber moment in the midst of a usually vibrant tourist atmosphere.