A man from the United States has confessed to raping and killing another American tourist near Germany’s famed Neuschwanstein Castle last June.
Troy Philipp B is facing multiple charges, including one count of murder in the death of a 21-year-old woman and the attempted murder of her 22-year-old friend.
In addition to these charges, he also admitted to sexually assaulting the 21-year-old and pushing both women off a ravine.
The 31-year-old may be sentenced to life in jail if he is found guilty.
During the first day of the trial at the district court in the southern town of Kempten, his lawyer, Philip Mueller, described the accused’s actions as “incomprehensible.” The defense argued that the suspect acted spontaneously and not with intent.
Mueller also stated that his client was “deeply ashamed” of his actions and expressed a desire to apologize to the victim’s family.
In addition to the charges related to the assault and murder, B also admitted to possessing child pornography, which was discovered during the investigation.
The two women met Troy Philipp B near the Marienbrücke bridge, a popular viewpoint for tourists to see the castle. He then led them to a hidden trail under the pretext that the way to the bridge was difficult to navigate. Once in a secluded area, the man assaulted the 21-year-old before pushing the 22-year-old into a ravine. He then continued assaulting the 21-year-old and ultimately pushed her into the same ravine after hikers came across the scene.
While the 21-year-old woman died from her injuries in hospital, the 22-year-old survived with numerous injuries.
B was detained later that day after a massive police manhunt involving more than 25 vehicles. A tourist from New York witnessed his arrest and observed that he had visible scratches on his face and neck, indicating a struggle.
Due to Germany’s privacy laws, the victims’ names have not been released.
Neuschwanstein Castle, located in Bavaria, is one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions, attracting over 1.3 million visitors each year. Situated about 126km (78 miles) from Munich, it was constructed in the 19th Century to serve as a residence for the region’s rulers, but it was never occupied.
