American Man Arrested for Fatal Assault on US Tourists at Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany

German authorities announced on Thursday the arrest of an American man in connection with the death of one U.S. tourist and the assault on another near Neuschwanstein castle in southern Germany. The suspect allegedly pushed the two women down a steep slope, leading to the tragic incident.

The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon near the Marienbruecke, a bridge overlooking a gorge close to the castle, renowned for its breathtaking view of Neuschwanstein. According to the police statement, the 30-year-old man encountered the two female tourists, aged 21 and 22, while hiking. He enticed them onto a trail that led to a viewpoint.

Police spokesman Holger Stabik stated, “The suspect attacked the younger woman, and when the older one attempted to intervene, he choked her and subsequently pushed her down a slope.”

Following the assault, the assailant apparently made an attempt to sexually assault the 21-year-old before pushing her down the slope as well. The fall, which was nearly 50 meters (165 feet), brought her close to her injured friend.

A mountain rescue team swiftly reached both women. The 22-year-old was conscious and transported to a nearby hospital, while the 21-year-old, who suffered severe injuries, was airlifted to a different hospital. Tragically, she succumbed to her injuries overnight.

The suspect initially fled the scene but was promptly apprehended in the vicinity. A video recorded by an eyewitness, Eric Abneri, showed the handcuffed man being escorted by the police. Abneri described the man as having visible scratches on his face. The suspect remained silent throughout the ordeal.

Expressing shock, Abneri said, “It is astounding that anyone could survive such a fall. It’s like falling from the top of a sheer cliff.” He praised the mountain rescue team for their remarkable efforts in the challenging rescue operation, navigating treacherous cliffs and deploying a helicopter.

Authorities identified the arrested individual as an American tourist, while the victims were also U.S. citizens. The 22-year-old victim remained hospitalized, according to prosecutors.

The suspect, whose identity was not disclosed, was ordered to be held in custody pending potential indictment. The investigation is underway, and the suspect faces charges of murder, attempted murder, and a sexual offense.

Police and prosecutors are diligently working to reconstruct the sequence of events and have appealed to any witnesses to come forward.

Neuschwanstein, situated in southern Bavaria near the Austrian border, is a highly popular tourist destination. It is renowned as the most iconic among the castles commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century. Despite its construction remaining unfinished after Ludwig’s death in 1886, the castle continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Castle incident

More about Castle incident

• American arrested for pushing 2 US tourists into ravine at German castle
• Neuschwanstein Castle