An Austrian mountaineer is set to stand trial for gross negligent manslaughter after his girlfriend died of hypothermia on the Großglockner, Austria's highest mountain. The 33-year-old woman, identified only as Kerstin G, froze to death on 19 January 2025, approximately 50 metres below the summit, following a gruelling 17-hour ascent with her boyfriend, Thomas P, 36.
Prosecutors allege that Thomas P, as the more experienced climber, made critical errors that led to her death. These include proceeding with the climb despite Kerstin G's lack of experience on such a demanding route, inadequate equipment, and failing to turn back or call for help in time. The couple set out on the morning of 18 January but faced deteriorating conditions, including temperatures near -9C, a wind chill of -20C, and gusts of up to 45mph.
At around 2am, Thomas P left Kerstin G in a state of exhaustion and hypothermia to descend the mountain for help. She was later found dead. Thomas P denies manslaughter, with his lawyer, Kurt Jelinek, describing the incident as a tragic accident. The prosecution, led by senior public prosecutor Hansjörg Mayr, argues that Thomas P failed in his duty as the de facto tour guide, citing nine specific errors.
The case has sparked debate in Austria and beyond about responsibility in mountain sports. Kerstin G's mother, Gertraud G, who is due to testify, has expressed support for Thomas P, calling the prosecution a witch-hunt. She emphasised that her daughter was an experienced climber in top physical condition.
If found guilty, Thomas P faces up to three years in prison. The trial opens on Thursday at the court in Innsbruck.
