A 37-year-old climber named Thomas P. was convicted by an Austrian court for the culpable homicide (involuntary manslaughter) of his girlfriend, Kerstin G., after she died from hypothermia during a climbing expedition on Grossglockner, the highest mountain in Austria. The court sentenced him to five months of conditional imprisonment and a fine, as widely reported by media including BBC and the German outlet 'Der Spiegel'.

The incident took place under treacherous weather conditions on January 19, 2025, when Thomas P. left Kerstin G. exhausted and unprotected at a high altitude while he went to seek assistance. The prosecution argued that his actions demonstrated gross negligence, as he failed to ensure her safety in an inhospitable environment. Kerstin G. ultimately succumbed to the elements, raising serious questions about climber safety and responsibility in extreme situations.

This case highlights the inherent risks involved in mountaineering and the moral obligations climbers have towards their partners. It serves as a cautionary tale for the climbing community, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and decision-making in extreme outdoor scenarios, particularly during dangerous weather conditions.