A 15-year-old gymnast was crushed to death under a giant boulder she had climbed onto for a selfie when the rock shifted, trapping her underneath.

Victim Gaia De Gol had been posing with a friend at the base of a bridge over the Piave River, in Cesana, in the Belluno area, in the Veneto region, in northern Italy, when the boulder slipped, rolling right over her.

Picture shows the rescue team at the scene, undated. Gaia De Gol, 15, dies after being hit by a boulder while taking a selfie. Note: Photo from Fire Department. (Vigili del Fuoco/Newsflash/NX)

Local media reports on 16th July say that a 15-year-old friend posing with her escaped with hand injuries and was taken to hospital in Belluno.

Gaia's rhythmic gymnastics coach at the Sport Natura & Benessere sports association, Erika Dilli, said: "She was a good, talented girl. I've known her since she was five years old.

Gaia De Gol, 15, poses in undated photo. She died after taking a selfie on the Piave River, Italy. Note: Private photo. (Newsflash/NX)

"She stood out for being particularly motivated and enthusiastic in attending lessons and competitions."

A third 16-year-old girl escaped uninjured, according to local media reports.

(Joseph Golder / newsX)