Climber Tells Austrian Court Girlfriend Told Him, 'Go Now!'
Newser • • world
Key Points:
- An Austrian court is examining when a climbing partner becomes legally responsible for another's death, focusing on the case of Thomas P, accused of grossly negligent manslaughter after his girlfriend Kerstin G died of hypothermia on Grossglockner in January 2025.
- Prosecutors allege Thomas P, a less experienced climber who taught himself via online videos, made critical errors including inadequate planning, continuing despite severe weather, and failing to call for help, leaving Kerstin defenseless and hypothermic near the summit.
- Thomas P denies gross negligence, stating the couple planned the ascent together, conditions deteriorated unexpectedly, and he secured her before descending at her urging; Kerstin's parents do not blame him.
