67-Year-Old from Spittal an der Drau Dies in Mountaineering Accident on the Kreuzeck

Deployment of the Rescue Services

The crew of the alerted ÖAMTC rescue helicopter C7 flew to the accident site. The emergency doctor on site could only determine the death of the man. According to the rescue services, the victim is the 67-year-old from Spittal.

The Kreuzeck group in Upper Carinthia is one of the popular but demanding hiking destinations in the High Tauern. Steep grassy slopes, rocky outcrops, and stony passages require sure-footedness, a head for heights, and alpine experience – especially during the descent, when the leg muscles are already fatigued.

Investigations and Background

The exact circumstances of the fall are still the subject of investigations. According to the current state of affairs, there is no indication of any third-party involvement, according to the police. The Klagenfurt public prosecutor's office was informed.

The recovery of the body was carried out by the ÖAMTC helicopter, supported by the mountain rescue service. The relatives of the deceased were notified. According to the police, there were no unusual weather conditions at the time of the accident on Sunday.

Fatal mountaineering accidents are not uncommon in the alpine region of Carinthia. During the summer months alone, the rescue services regularly record severe falls and cardiovascular emergencies on moderate tours. The Alpine Club advises adapting routes to one's own fitness and experience, and remaining especially focused during the descent.

Safety During Mountain Hiking

The identity of the man was given by the police as being from the district of Spittal an der Drau. Further personal details were not published, citing the relatives.

The hiking group that found the body on Monday morning was, according to the police, deeply affected by the incident and was cared for by a crisis intervention team.

The investigations into the exact sequence of the fall are ongoing. The police are examining whether possible health problems or a slip on the rocky ground may have led to the fall.