Prosecutors end inquiry into fatal cow attack in Tyrol

Innsbruck prosecutors have discontinued criminal investigations into a fatal cow attack and other incidents in East Tyrol, ORF reported Friday. They found no evidence of criminal wrongdoing.

A 67-year-old woman died on May 17 after a herd of cows attacked her and her 65-year-old husband on a hiking trail along the Isel river near Oberlienz. Her husband suffered serious injuries and was flown to a clinic in Innsbruck. Other people in the area were also attacked and injured, including a veterinarian.

Prosecutors said there was no evidence that the animals had been improperly kept, and that warning signs about the cattle were adequate. Investigators could not determine which cow or cows attacked the people, or which farmer might be responsible. Animals belonging to several local farmers were grazing in the pasture along the river at the time.

Investigators and the victim’s husband said a woman with a dog may have been in the area before the attack. The veterinarian also provided information pointing in that direction. Prosecutors said they could not establish criminally relevant fault.