An Austrian mountaineer has been given a suspended sentence for involuntary manslaughter after his climbing partner died of hypothermia on the country’s highest peak. The case, which has drawn international attention, highlights the extreme risks associated with high-altitude climbing and the responsibilities climbers have toward one another.
The 37-year-old man was convicted in Innsbruck on February 21, 2026, and sentenced to five months in prison, suspended, for the death of his 33-year-old partner in January 2025 on the Grossglockner mountain, according to reports.
The woman died after being left alone on the summit in freezing temperatures. Prosecutors argued the man abandoned her during a descent in challenging conditions, including strong winds and sub-zero temperatures. The defendant reportedly claimed the conditions deteriorated rapidly, forcing him to leave her to seek assist.
According to reports in Le Figaro, the incident occurred on January 19, 2025.
The case has sparked further scrutiny after another woman came forward alleging the same climber abandoned her in a similar situation. TF1 Info reported that the second woman accused him of leaving her stranded during a previous climb.
The court heard testimony detailing the perilous conditions faced by the pair on the Grossglockner. TVA Nouvelles noted the extreme weather conditions contributed to the tragedy.
The suspended sentence means the man will not immediately go to prison, but will be subject to monitoring and could face imprisonment if he commits another offense. The ruling underscores the legal and ethical considerations surrounding mountaineering and the duty of care climbers owe to their companions. Parismatch.com has more on the second accusation.
The incident also raises questions about the risks inherent in extreme sports and the potential for tragedy when conditions turn dangerous. L’Indépendant detailed the harrowing circumstances of the climb.
