New Jersey Man Critically Injured After Cliff Jump in Italy

A New Jersey man is in critical condition after a cliff jump in Italy.

Jacob Fleig, 22, of Berlin, New Jersey, was vacationing with his fiancée at Fiordo di Furore on the Amalfi Coast when he reportedly jumped from the coastal road into the sea on Oct. 5. The jump was from a height of nearly 100 feet.

Fleig has undergone multiple life-saving procedures and surgeries and is currently in intensive care at a Salerno hospital. His brother, Jimmy Dorner, stated in a GoFundMe campaign that their priority is to stabilize Fleig medically to allow for transport back to the United States for further treatment.

A cousin reported on Facebook that Fleig was placed in a medically induced coma a day after the incident. Fleig had proposed to his fiancée shortly after they arrived in Italy, according to the cousin's post.

Reports indicate Fleig struck the water in an unfavorable position, sustaining an injury to his back. He was initially taken to a local hospital before being airlifted to Salerno. The day after the accident, his injuries were described as serious but not life-threatening.

Fleig is a student studying electrical engineering. His brother described him as a person who brings light into the lives of those he encounters, noting his charisma and humor.

Fiordo di Furore is a narrow inlet and a popular scenic spot on the UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast. The area features a small beach below a bridge that carries the coastal road. While professional divers participate in organized events at the location, local authorities often warn against diving into unfamiliar waters due to potential hidden hazards like shallow water or submerged rocks.

The GoFundMe campaign for Fleig's medical expenses had raised over $47,000 towards its $50,000 goal as of Saturday afternoon.