A skiing accident at the Schmittenhöhe ski resort in Austria resulted in the death of a 49-year-old man on Saturday, March 23, 2024. An Irish teenager, aged 14, is alleged to have fled the scene following the collision. The incident occurred on one of the resort’s popular slopes, known for its expansive 77 kilometers of skiing terrain.
The accident took place around 15:00 local time on the Hirschkogel slope. Reports indicate that the teenager and the man collided at high speed, leading to the tragic outcome. Despite emergency efforts, the man died at the scene. Witnesses stated that the boy skied away from the site of the accident.
According to a spokesperson from the local police, the family of the teenager learned of the man’s death through media reports. They subsequently approached the police at a station in Zell am See to inform them of the boy’s involvement in the incident. The police launched a search for the teenager, believing he may not have been aware of the man’s fatal injuries.
The spokesperson confirmed, “A 14-year-old boy was involved in an accident on Saturday. The family received information in the media that the man had died. They went to a police station in Zell am See and reported he was the other one involved in the accident.” The police have conducted an interview with the boy, but details regarding his identity remain undisclosed.
Authorities have confirmed that the teenager is an Irish citizen and not from Northern Ireland. He was on holiday in Austria with his family. The police did not specify how the investigation would proceed, but typically, a police statement is issued, and a court addresses any legal matters. The spokesperson added, “People who are 14 can be brought to court, but with this case, I can’t say any further information. The investigation is ongoing.”
An autopsy has been ordered by the public prosecutor’s office to determine the exact cause of death for the 49-year-old man. The Department of Foreign Affairs in Ireland acknowledged awareness of the incident and stated that officials, including those at Embassy Vienna, are prepared to provide consular assistance to any Irish citizens who may request it.
This tragic accident highlights the inherent risks associated with skiing, particularly in busy resorts like Schmittenhöhe, which attracts thousands of tourists each year. As the investigation unfolds, further details are expected to emerge regarding this incident and its implications for both the teenager and his family.
