Climber convicted of manslaughter after leaving girlfriend on Austria’s highest peak to get help

The Guardian World

by Reuters

February 20, 2026

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A 37-year-old Austrian amateur mountaineer has been convicted of manslaughter after his girlfriend died while climbing the country’s highest peak. Thomas P., who was sentenced to five months in prison (suspended) and fined €9,400, left Kerstin G. alone on Austria’s Montafon summit when she became unable to continue due to fatigue and altitude sickness. The court found him responsible for her death after he abandoned her despite knowing the risks of leaving an incapacitated climber behind. The couple had been attempting to summit the 12,000-foot peak together when Kerstin G.’s condition deteriorated. According to reports, she suffered from exhaustion and struggled to breathe at high altitude. Thomas P., in a bid to seek help, left her alone with only a sleeping bag for warmth. However, authorities later determined that his decision to abandon her without proper assistance contributed directly to her death. This case is highly unusual because climbing accidents are common, but prosecutions for manslaughter in such scenarios are rare. Legal experts note that the court’s ruling sets a precedent by holding individuals accountable for their decisions during high-risk activities like mountaineering. The sentence reflects a growing awareness of safety responsibilities in outdoor adventures and the potential consequences of leaving others unattended in dangerous situations. The case has sparked broader discussions about the ethics of mountain climbing and the importance of prioritizing safety over ambition. It serves as a cautionary tale for adventurers, emphasizing the need to assess risks carefully and ensure that no one is left behind in life-threatening conditions. For readers interested in mountaineering or legal implications of outdoor activities, this story highlights the fine line between adventure and tragedy. In summary, Thomas P.’s conviction underscores the serious consequences of neglecting safety during climbing expeditions. The case not only sheds

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/20/2026