American tourist admits raping and murdering fellow US hiker near 'Disney' castle in Bavaria

An American tourist, Troy Phillip Bohling, has confessed to a horrifying crime during his trial at a District Court in Kempten, Bavaria. The 31-year-old from Michigan admitted to raping and murdering a fellow US hiker by pushing her down a 165-foot ravine near the famous Neuschwanstein Castle.

Encounter at Neuschwanstein Castle

Bohling was on holiday in Germany when he met two female tourists, Eva Liu, 21, and Kelsey Chang, 22, at the renowned Neuschwanstein Castle, which is said to have inspired the castle in Disney’s Sleeping Beauty. The two women, nearing the end of their trip around Europe, were accompanied by Bohling on a mountain trail. It was reported that Bohling lured them to a viewing point under the pretense of taking romantic selfies with a better view of the castle.

Shocking assault and tragic outcome

At the viewing point, Bohling pushed Ms. Liu to the ground and proceeded to rape her. Ms. Chang intervened, and during the scuffle, she was pushed into the ravine. Bohling continued the sexual assault, eventually strangling Ms. Liu with a belt. This horrifying act was further exacerbated by Bohling filming the assault. 

The situation took an even darker turn when a pair of hikers unexpectedly stumbled upon the crime scene. In response, Bohling pushed Ms. Liu over the same ledge, leaving her unconscious. While Ms. Chang managed to survive the fall with the help of a tree, Ms. Liu sustained serious injuries and tragically passed away in the hospital later that night.

Arrest and legal proceedings

Bohling, who had been staying at a boarding house in the nearby town of Oberstor, was apprehended after a large-scale police operation involving 25 emergency vehicles. Initially refusing to cooperate with the authorities, Bohling later made a statement to the investigating judge before being remanded in custody. His lawyer acknowledged Bohling's awareness of the victim's dire situation but emphasized that the attack was not premeditated. Bohling faces the possibility of a life sentence if convicted and has admitted to the possession of child pornography as well.

A witness from New York, Eric Abneri, recounted the arrest, noting the visible physical struggle on Bohling's face and his demeanor characterized by a disturbed look. His observations shed light on the unsettling aftermath of the crime and the state of the accused at the time of his arrest.

Neuschwanstein Castle, a 19th-century architectural marvel built by King Ludwig II, is a popular tourist destination in Germany, attracting over a million visitors annually. The trial proceedings, which commenced at the District Court in Kempten, are expected to continue until March 13, shedding further light on the tragic events that unfolded near this iconic landmark.