Man Accused of Abandoning Girlfriend to Freeze to Death on Austria's Highest Mountain Caught on Webcam

A climber has been formally charged after allegedly abandoning his girlfriend on Austrias highest mountain, where she succumbed to freezing temperatures. The tragic event was partially captured by a public webcam.

The 33-year-old woman and her 39-year-old partner began their ascent of Grossglockner, Austrias tallest peak at 12,460 feet, via the Studlgrat route on January 18. Their progress was visible on a local webcam, showing their headlamps lighting the snowy path.

At approximately 8:50 p.m., the couple became stranded just 165 feet from the summit. By 10:50 p.m., rescuers attempted to reach the man, but he reportedly had his phone turned off. Severe weather conditions, including sub-freezing temperatures and 45 mph winds, made the situation even more dangerous.

Prosecutors allege that the man left his girlfriend exposed, exhausted, and disoriented near the summit. She eventually froze to death. Despite being the more experienced climber, he did not provide her with adequate protection or use emergency blankets.

Helicopter footage shows the rescue operation in progress. The man reportedly descended the mountain alone while his girlfriends headlamp battery eventually died. He contacted rescue services around 3:30 a.m., then allegedly turned off his phone again.

The woman, who had no prior experience with high-altitude alpine climbs, was found deceased by rescuers at 10 a.m. the following morning. Prosecutors emphasized that, due to his experience and planning, the man was responsible for guiding the climb safely.

Additional allegations include starting the climb later than planned and failing to bring sufficient emergency equipment. The man faces charges of grossly negligent manslaughter, and his trial is scheduled for February. Conviction could result in a prison sentence of up to three years.

Author: Benjamin Carter