An American tourist was killed and another was injured near Germany’s famous “Sleeping Beauty” Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria.
Last Wednesday, June 14, an unfortunate event unfolded near Marienbruecke, a pedestrian bridge beloved for its breathtaking panorama of Neuschwanstein, the iconic castle that inspired Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty.”
Based on the police report, a 30-year-old American man came into contact with two American female tourists, ages 21 and 22, on a hiking trail to the east of the bridge. He persuaded them to accompany him to a picturesque lookout. Tragically, he then attacked the younger woman, turning violent when her companion tried to intervene. He strangled and harshly pushed the 22-year-old down a severe slope before making a sexual assault attempt on the 21-year-old and also forcing her down the incline. Police indicate that the women plummeted almost 165 feet.
Swift intervention by mountain rescue services from the neighboring town of Fuessen enabled the rescue of the 22-year-old victim, who was conscious and taken to the hospital. Unfortunately, the 21-year-old woman’s injuries were too grave. She was airlifted to a medical facility where she subsequently died.
Following the incident, the perpetrator escaped but was swiftly apprehended by police. While names are yet to be released, Bavarian State Police confirmed all parties involved were American tourists.
The assailant was presented before a judge in the nearby town of Kempten on Thursday, June 14. The judge ordered his incarceration pending possible charges. The man faces an investigation for allegations of murder, attempted murder, and sexual assault.
Police are asking any potential witnesses with information or photographs to help further their ongoing investigation.