A German climber has gone on trial in Austria accused of leaving his girlfriend to die on the country’s highest mountain. The 33-year-old woman, identified as Kerstin G, froze to death during a winter ascent of the 3,798m Grossglockner in January 2025, the BBC reported.
Prosecutors in Innsbruck have charged Thomas P with gross negligent manslaughter, arguing that as the more experienced climber he was responsible for planning and leading the tour. They allege he failed to turn back in worsening weather and later left his exhausted partner near the summit while he went to seek help. If convicted, he faces up to three years in prison.
