Teenager Injured During Krampus Parade in Pinzgau: Investigation Underway

A 13-year-old girl sustained injuries requiring hospital treatment during a Krampus procession in the Pinzgau region. The incident occurred at an officially approved event that drew between 400 and 500 attendees. According to information from the Salzburg State Police, the use of pyrotechnics was expressly prohibited during the festivities.

Authorities have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the girl's injuries. A 19-year-old individual, as well as the leaders of the participating Krampus groups, have been reported to the authorities. They face allegations of negligent bodily harm and, in some cases, negligent endangerment of the public.

The Krampuslauf is a traditional event held in many Alpine regions, where participants dress as Krampus -- a folkloric figure -- and parade through local communities. Despite strict regulations regarding safety, including bans on dangerous items such as pyrotechnics, the large crowds and energetic performances can sometimes result in accidents.

In this instance, law enforcement is focusing on whether safety protocols were adequately enforced and if any prohibited items contributed to the incident. The event's organizers had previously agreed to safety measures, including clear prohibitions on fireworks and other hazardous materials, to ensure the wellbeing of both participants and spectators.

The Salzburg State Police have confirmed that the case has been forwarded to the appropriate authorities for further review. The investigation will assess individual responsibilities and determine if failures in supervision or adherence to safety rules played a role in the incident.

Local officials emphasized that such traditional events must prioritize the safety of minors and the general public. Any breaches of regulations, particularly those involving banned substances or inadequate supervision, are taken seriously and will be subject to legal action as necessary.

The condition of the injured girl has not been publicly disclosed beyond confirmation that she required hospital care. The ongoing inquiry will seek to clarify the sequence of events that led to her injuries and whether additional preventive measures will be recommended for future events.

The Krampuslauf remains a significant cultural tradition in the region. However, authorities are reminding organizers and participants of the importance of strict compliance with all safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Updates on the investigation will be provided as more information becomes available.