TN Fisherman Holds Live Fish In Mouth While Fishing, Chokes To Death On Its Spiny Fins

A 29-year-old man from Arayapakkam village in Chengalpattu district lost his life after a live fish became lodged in his throat while he was fishing near Madurantakam on Tuesday.

Fish Gets Stuck On Throat 

The deceased, Manigandan, was a daily wage worker and an experienced traditional fisherman known for catching fish with his bare hands in shallow waters, as per a report on Times of India. The incident occurred at Keezhavalam lake, where Manigandan had gone fishing. According to witnesses, he had caught two fish, and in an effort to keep one secure, he momentarily held it in his mouth while attempting to grab the other.

Tragically, the live fish—identified as panangottai, a local species with sharp fins—slipped further into his throat and became stuck, reported India Today. The spiny fins spread out, blocking his airway and making it nearly impossible to remove.

Realizing the danger, Manigandan tried to rush back to the village for help but collapsed on the way. Locals who witnessed the scene attempted to dislodge the fish but were unsuccessful due to its embedded fins. He was taken to the District Government Hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.

Authorities confirmed the cause of death and have categorized it as a freak accident. Local officials and residents expressed shock over the tragedy, noting the unpredictability and danger that can accompany even familiar fishing practices.

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