An American man confesses to rape and murder in Neuschwanstein Castle attack
An American man accused of rape and murder in last year’s attack on two U.S. tourists at Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany, confessed to the crimes in a court appearance on Monday.
Suspect Confesses to Charges of Murder and Rape
The 31-year-old American man, whose name has been withheld, appeared in a regional court in Bavaria, Germany. With his defense attorney by his side, he read out a statement in which he confessed to the most serious charges against him. The admissions came in relation to a brutal attack on two U.S. women at Germany’s famous Neuschwanstein Castle last year.
Details of the Barbaric Assault
The attack, which took place on June 14, 2023, left the victim, Eva Liu, a 21-year-old student at the University of Illinois, dead, while her companion, 22-year-old Kelsey Chang, survived but sustained injuries. The assailant revealed that he committed this unfathomable offense. Reportedly, he forcibly raped Liu and threw her down a steep ravine, resulting in her tragic demise. Chang, in her attempt to defend her friend, was also thrown into a gorge but managed to endure her injuries.
Tourist Attraction Turned Crime Scene
The heinous acts occurred on the Marienbrucke Bridge, a popular tourist spot famous for its stunning view of the 19th-century “Cinderella” palace and considered one of Germany’s most visited and photographed landmarks.
Disturbing Evidence and Police Investigation
The defendant, whose identity remains undisclosed, entered the courtroom with his face concealed, showing no signs of emotion. German authorities, conducting a comprehensive investigation, demonstrated substantial evidence against the accused. Videos and photographs of the crime found on the defendant’s cell phone and other electronic devices were pivotal in their inquiry. Prosecutors alleged that the accused also possessed explicit material and images of child pornography.
A Day of Deception
Prosecutors outlined the events of that fateful day, stating that the suspect approached Liu and Chang near Neuschwanstein Castle, deceitfully offering to show them a picturesque spot with a captivating view of the palace. Exploiting the secluded path’s limited visibility, he led the unsuspecting victims to a secluded area.
A Vicious Attack and Tragic Outcome
Subsequently, the accused allegedly subjected Liu to a sexual assault, and upon Chang’s attempt to intervene, he pushed her into the ravine where she was left injured, clinging to a tree approximately 165 feet below. Authorities reported that the assailant then choked Liu until she lost consciousness, raped her, and similarly pushed her into the ravine where she eventually succumbed to her injuries in the hospital.
Capture and Aftermath
Authorities apprehended the suspect near Marienbrücke shortly after the assault. Their swift action, following a massive police operation, unfolded in front of hundreds of tourists who had gathered at the site. The main objective was to rescue the victims from the treacherous terrain.
