An American tourist was killed and another was injured near Germany’s famous “Sleeping Beauty” Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria.

Wednesday, June 14, marked an appalling day near Marienbruecke, a footbridge renowned for its awe-inspiring view of the Neuschwanstein, the real-world castle that served as the basis for Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty.” The Bavarian State Police have since provided an account of the horrifying series of events.

As reported by law enforcement, while on a trail on the east side of the bridge, two American female tourists, 21 and 22 years old, encountered a 30-year-old American man. He successfully led them to a picturesque vista under false pretenses, only to suddenly attack the younger woman. Her friend’s attempt to protect her was met with violence as he strangled and pushed her off a steep precipice. He then tried to assault the 21-year-old before pushing her down the same slope. Both women fell close to 165 feet, according to the police report.

Mountain rescue teams from Fuessen, a nearby town, were prompt in responding and successfully rescued the conscious 22-year-old, rapidly transporting her to a hospital. Regrettably, the 21-year-old suffered critical injuries and, despite being airlifted to a hospital, she later died.

Police reports indicate the attacker attempted to flee the scene but was quickly caught. All three individuals involved were confirmed by the Bavarian State Police to be American tourists, although their identities remain undisclosed.

The accused appeared before a judge in Kempten, an adjacent town, on June 14. Detention was ordered by the judge pending formal charges. The man is presently under scrutiny for potential charges of murder, attempted murder, and sexual misconduct.

The Bavarian State Police are urging witnesses with any information or photographic evidence to come forward and aid in their ongoing investigation.