A tragic incident on January 19, 2024, near the summit of Grossglockner Mountain in Austria has resulted in the death of 33-year-old Kerstin Gutner. She reportedly froze to death after being left by her boyfriend, Thomas Plamberger, who now faces charges of negligent homicide. The couple was caught in severe winter conditions, with temperatures dropping to -4 degrees Fahrenheit, as they attempted to reach Austria’s highest peak.
According to the Innsbruck public prosecutor’s office, Gutner was left unprotected and disoriented approximately 50 meters below the summit. Prosecutors stated that Plamberger, 39, who was experienced in mountaineering, had planned the excursion and was expected to act as a responsible guide. The couple had been effectively stranded since 8:50 p.m., yet Plamberger did not issue distress signals or call for help when a police helicopter flew nearby at 10:50 p.m.
Evidence suggests that Plamberger only contacted the Alpine Police at 1:35 a.m., subsequently silencing his phone. Around 2:30 a.m., he was seen descending the mountain alone, leaving Gutner behind without using available emergency blankets for her protection. Prosecutors allege that he failed to take essential precautions despite her critical condition.
The details surrounding the incident have sparked outrage and sorrow, with many expressing their condolences on a memorial page for Gutner. Comments reflect heartbreak and disbelief over the loss, with one user stating, “Rest in heavenly peace,” while another expressed the difficulty in finding the right words to convey their sadness.
Plamberger, represented by lawyer Kurt Jelinek, maintains his innocence, claiming that Gutner’s death was a “tragic, fateful accident.” He has been formally charged, and his trial is scheduled to begin in February. If convicted, he faces a potential prison sentence of up to three years.
The case raises important questions about safety and responsibility in extreme outdoor activities, particularly for those who may not have the same level of experience. As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of a young woman whose passion for the mountains ended in tragedy.
