A star gymnast tragically dies after falling 260 feet while taking a selfie at a popular tourist spot.
Natalie Stichova, a talented Czech gymnast, tragically died on August 21 after suffering extensive brain damage from a fall.
Tragic fall at Neuschwanstein castle
On August 15, 2024, 23-year-old Natalie Stichova was sightseeing at the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany. The castle is known for inspiring Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty.
Natalie Stichova ell approximately 80 meters (260 feet) while attempting to take a selfie near the edge of Tegelberg Mountain.
According to local reports, Natalie was standing very close to the edge when she slipped.
A friend of hers stated, “She fell from a height of about 80 meters. We will never know if she slipped or if a piece of the rock broke off.”
While, Natalie had been with two friends and her boyfriend, David, at the time.
The area where she fell was described by police as a ‘challenging climb.’
Star gymnast, Natalie Stichova died after falling 260 feet while taking a selfie
Natalie survived the fall with severe injuries and was airlifted to a hospital.
Unfortunately, she was taken off life support just days later after it was confirmed that she had suffered irreversible brain damage.
As a result, she passed away on August 21.
Her gymnastics club, Sokol Pribram Sports Gymnastics, expressed their grief in a statement obtained by Newsflash: “With deep sorrow, we announce that our wonderful friend, gymnast, representative, and coach, Natalka Stichova, has left us forever due to a tragic accident. Natalka spread smiles throughout her short life, and that is how we will remember her forever. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and close friends, sending them strength and support. To honor Natalka’s memory, you are welcome to light a candle at our gymnasium.”
Natalie’s mother added, “There is no one who didn’t love her. Our Natálie was the sweetest person.”
Previous tragedy at Neuschwanstein astle
This incident is not the first tragedy associated with Neuschwanstein Castle.
In June of the previous year, Troy Bohling, 31, was convicted of the rape and murder of 21-year-old Eva Liu.
Bohling, from Michigan State, USA, had lured Liu and her friend, Kelsey Chang, to a viewing point at the castle before attacking them.
Liu died from her injuries, while Chang survived. Bohling was sentenced to life in prison for his crimes in March of this year.
Bavarian police reported at the time: “The man then steered the two under a pretext to a trail that was difficult to see, which leads to a viewpoint. An attempted sexual offense against the 21-year-old is assumed.”
Police spokesperson Holger Stabik added, “The younger of the two women was attacked by the suspect. The older one tried to rush to her aid, was then choked by the suspect, and subsequently pushed down a slope.”
This tragic incident highlights the ongoing need for awareness and caution at popular tourist sites.