An Austrian man has been convicted of manslaughter by gross negligence after his girlfriend died of hypothermia during an attempt to climb the country's highest peak. The 37-year-old received a suspended five-month sentence and a fine of $11,300.
The couple set out to climb the Grossglockner in January 2025. Prosecutors stated the 33-year-old woman died approximately 50 meters below the summit after her partner left her behind. The defendant pleaded not guilty.
The judge acknowledged the defendant misjudged the situation but did not intentionally abandon his girlfriend, whose mountaineering experience was significantly less than his. The judge emphasized the man's failure to take leadership responsibility, noting the woman likely would have survived had an emergency call been made earlier or had they turned back.
The defendant expressed deep regret, claiming they made all decisions jointly and that his girlfriend was in good condition when a helicopter passed overhead. He stated he descended to seek help after consulting with her. The verdict is subject to appeal.