Innsbruck, Austria – A man is set too stand trial in February 2026, accused of manslaughter following the death of his girlfriend during a climb on Austria’s highest peak, the Grossglockner. The woman died of hypothermia after her boyfriend allegedly abandoned her on the mountain,authorities say.
The case, which unfolded in January 2024, centers on allegations that the boyfriend prioritized his own descent over ensuring his partner’s safety. The trial promises to examine the critical decisions made during a failed rescue attempt and the legal implications of leaving a climbing partner in distress. The outcome could set a precedent for accountability in extreme mountaineering situations.
According to prosecutors, the couple triggered a rescue operation after becoming stranded on the Grossglockner. A fellow climber alerted authorities after spotting the pair, appearing abandoned, on the mountain.police initially attempted to contact the couple via helicopter, reaching the area by 10:50 p.m., but received no distress signals.
Contact was finally established shortly after midnight,but was abruptly cut off when the boyfriend allegedly silenced and stowed his phone. He then began his descent, sending a rescue alert at approximately 3:30 a.m. Despite renewed helicopter attempts at dawn, high winds hampered landing efforts, requiring a ground rescue team. Rescuers reached the woman shortly after 10 a.m. the following morning, where she was pronounced dead.
The boyfriend, currently identified only as the defendant, is described as apologetic and grieving. His defense attorney maintains the death was a “tragic, fateful accident.” The trial is scheduled to begin on February 19, 2026, at the Innsbruck Regional Court.
