Feb 18 • 16:59 UTC 🇪🇨 Ecuador El Universo (ES)

He took his girlfriend to climb the highest mountain in Austria and will now face trial for her death

A man faces trial for homicide and serious negligence after his girlfriend died while climbing Austria's Grossglockner.

Kerstin G., a 33-year-old woman, tragically died from hypothermia at the summit of the Grossglockner during a snowstorm on January 19, 2025. Her partner, Thomas P., is being charged with homicide and serious negligence, accused of leaving her unprotected and exhausted while he descended to seek help. The prosecution argues that he had a duty as the more experienced climber and failed to act properly when the situation became perilous.

According to prosecutors, there are nine key mistakes identified in the handling of the climbing expedition that directly contributed to the unfortunate death of Kerstin G. They maintain that Thomas P. was the 'responsible guide' of the ascent and should have taken preventive measures against the harsh weather and the physical state of his partner. This situation raises broader questions about accountability within mountain sports and how individual risk assessment translates into legal responsibility.

As the trial approaches, the case has sparked significant debate regarding the implications for relationships and expectations in extreme sports environments. If found guilty, Thomas P. could face serious legal consequences, adding to the complexity of navigating personal relationships along with the inherent dangers of mountaineering.

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