Fatal crash: 18-year-old dies at the via ferrata in Eisenerz

Ein tödlicher Unfall ereignete sich am 8. Juni 2025 am Erzherzog-Johann-Klettersteig in Eisenerz. Ein 18-Jähriger aus Wien stürzte und konnte nur noch tot geborgen werden.
A fatal accident occurred on June 8, 2025 at the Archduke-Johann-Krettersteig in Eisenerz. An 18-year-old from Vienna fell and could only be recovered dead. (Symbolbild/ANAGAT)

Fatal crash: 18-year-old dies at the via ferrata in Eisenerz

Eisenerz, Österreich - On Saturday, June 8, 2025, a tragic accident occurred in the municipal area of ​​Eisenerz on the "Archduke-Johann-Ketttersteig". An 18-year-old Viennese, who was traveling with two friends, lost the hold on the descent and fell about 200 meters into a rock-enforced channel. Unfortunately, despite the rapid help by the emergency doctor of the rescue helicopter Christophorus 17, only the death of the youngster could be determined, such as meinzirk.at reported.

The two friends of the accident remained without injuries, but had to process the shocking incident. They were accompanied by the mountain rescue in the valley and received support from the crisis intervention team before they were picked up by their parents. The deceased was recovered in cooperation with the mountain rescue Eisenerz and a police helicopter. Alpine police officers carried out comprehensive surveys at the scene of the accident, which, however, did not provide any evidence of external fault.

leisure activities and their risks

climbing is a popular sport and offers both challenges and the feeling of freedom in nature. However, certain risks are also associated with enjoyment. A recent study that was published on bergundstieg.com shows that around two thirds of all injuries occur in bouldering in climbing halls. In particular, leg injuries are common in both rope climbing and bouldering.

When climbing rope, about half of all accidents are soil falls, often caused by incorrect operation of the safety devices or poor communication between the climbers. In 2022, 210 accidents with emergency services were recorded in climbing halls, with 75% of them being bouldering. In the case of bouldering accidents, matt falls can be found, which is particularly dangerous for larger fall heights. Training and exercises in dealing with safety devices are therefore essential to ensure safe climbing.

The importance of security in climbing

In view of the incidents such as that in iron ore, it is important to be aware of the safety aspects of climbing. Experience and training are essential to minimize the risk of accidents. Especially when it comes to adventures in the mountains, climbers should be well prepared and equipped to prevent such tragic events.

The deadly accident reminds us of how quickly leisure activities that can cause joy can turn into dangers. The community is in thought among the relatives of the accident and the friends who have experienced a traumatic experience. Whether in climbing halls or in the mountains - security should always be in the first place.

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OrtEisenerz, Österreich
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