Thomas Plamberger, a 37-year-old chef from Salzburg, was found guilty of gross negligent manslaughter by a court in Innsbruck, Austria, after his girlfriend Kerstin Gurtner died during a climbing expedition on the Grossglockner, Austria's highest mountain. The couple ran into difficulties during their trek, and Plamberger, despite being a highly experienced climber, decided to leave Gurtner behind, which ultimately resulted in her tragic death. The incident occurred in January of the previous year, and the court's ruling was significantly influenced by the judge's own background as a climber and mountain rescuer.

The court imposed a five-month suspended prison sentence on Plamberger, along with a fine of 9,400 euros (approximately $15,165). While the prosecution sought a stricter penalty, arguing that as the more skilled climber, Plamberger had a duty of care towards his girlfriend, the defense claimed that he could not have anticipated her dying due to the sudden nature of the incident. The judge acknowledged Plamberger's experience but held him accountable for the decisions made during the climb that led to Gurtner's death.

This case raises important questions about responsibility and safety in high-risk outdoor activities. It highlights the ethical obligations that climbers may hold for one another, especially when navigating challenging terrains. This conviction could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, potentially influencing climbing regulations and safety practices in Austria and beyond.