More than a year after 33-year-old Kerstin G. died of hypothermia during an ill-fated climbing expedition on Austria's highest peak, her boyfriend, identified as Thomas P., is facing trial on charges of negligent homicide. The prosecution asserts that Thomas, being the more experienced climber, had a duty to protect his partner, accusing him of abandoning her in a vulnerable state close to the summit amid harsh weather conditions to seek help.

Images from a webcam captured Thomas descending the peak with a lantern while Kerstin remained alone, giving rise to significant public outrage and discussion in Austria and among outdoor enthusiasts worldwide. The prosecution highlights his failure to turn back or request help in time, arguing that he was responsible for the safety of the expedition due to his expertise.

The case has resonated deeply within the climbing community, raising important questions about accountability, safety, and the ethical responsibilities of climbers toward their partners. As the trial unfolds, it could set a precedent for similar cases in the future, challenging existing norms about risk-taking in the mountains and the expectations of climbers in distress.