An American man has been formally accused of murder, rape, and attempted murder in connection with a deadly assault that occurred in June near Germany's Neuschwanstein Castle, involving two American women.

The 31-year-old suspect, whose identity remains undisclosed, could face a life sentence if found guilty. According to prosecutors, he enticed the two women, aged 21 and 22, away from the trial and subjected the younger victim to a sexual assault.

When her companion attempted to intervene, a physical altercation ensued, resulting in both women being subsequently pushed into a steep ravine. Tragically, the 21-year-old victim succumbed to her injuries, while her older friend managed to survive.

Neuschwanstein Castle, situated in the southern Bavaria state of Germany, is one of the nation's most popular tourist destinations, attracting over 1.3 million visitors annually to its picturesque location in the foothills of the Alps. Located approximately 126 kilometers (78 miles) from Munich, the castle was constructed in the 19th century to serve as a residence for regional rulers but was never inhabited.

Prosecutors in the nearby town of Kempten have stated that the attack took place on June 14, shortly after the suspect met the two women near the Marienbrücke bridge, a well-known vantage point used by tourists to admire the castle.
He led them to a hidden trail, on the pretext that the way to the bridge was difficult to navigate.

The suspect then "forcibly brought the 21-year-old to the ground to undress her and perform sexual acts on her", the prosecutors said.

When her 22-year-old friend tried to intervene, he pushed her down the slope. She fell about 50m (164ft) and sustained numerous injuries, but survived.

The man is accused of strangling the younger woman and raping her, before also pushing her down. The woman died of her injuries.

The suspect was detained later that day after a massive police manhunt involving more than 25 vehicles.

Another American tourist, who witnessed the rescue and arrest, told the Associated Press news agency that the suspect had scratches across his face as he walked with police.