Man faces trial over damage to Kickl-climbed via ferrata

A man is due to stand trial at the district court in Bruck an der Mur on Thursday over alleged damage to a via ferrata route on the Hochschwab, ORF reports.

The route, called Geheimer Schwob, was first climbed by Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) leader Herbert Kickl. The damage in March 2025 was viewed at the time as an action against Kickl, who is not involved in the case.

Prosecutors allege the defendant removed and took numerous attachment brackets from the route on March 12, 2025. Climbers use the brackets to clip in their carabiners for safety. He is also accused of cutting bolt anchors with an angle grinder.

Alpine police documented the damage at the scene. Investigators said it could have seriously endangered other climbers. The man is charged with theft and property damage and, according to the court, has admitted the allegations.

The hearing is scheduled to begin at noon. No witnesses have been called; only the defendant is due to testify.