VIENNA (AP) - The Austrian judo federation says former Olympic judo silver medalist Claudia Heill of Austria has committed suicide by jumping out of a sixth-story window in central Vienna. She was 29.
The federation said in a statement that "nobody could foresee this act of desperation." It did not provide further details.
Federation president Hans Paul Kutschera told national broadcaster ORF on Thursday that Heill "was a very active person. Everyone who knew her is devastated."
Heill won silver in the under-63 kilogram category at the 2004 Athens Olympics.
Heill also won silver at the European championships in 2001 and '05, but retired one year after finished fifth at the '08 Beijing Games. She had since been working as a juniors' coach.
Copyright © 2011 The Associated Press
To the Claudia Family:
I am truly sorry to hear of your loss. Please remember that "God will wipe out every tear from your eyes, and death will be no more." One day soon, all human suffering and distress will be no more. May the one "who imparts power" continue to strenghthen your family.
Patsy Kelly
April 15, 2011 | Phoenix, AZ
DIDNT KNOW YOUR LOVED ONE BUT MAY THE GOOD LORD ABOVE STRENGTHEN YOU ALL AND MAY YOU FIND PEACE. GOD BLESS
STACY STANFORD
April 04, 2011 | JACKSONVILLE, NC
You were "Ichi Bon in all our hearts
Terry
April 03, 2011 | Lorain, OH
To The Heill Family:
I am so sorry for your tragic loss.
My prayers are for you. Claudia, May you
rest in peace..
Barbara
April 02, 2011 | East Brunswick, NJ
Rest in Peace Claudia
Susan Hutchison
April 02, 2011 | Barberton, OH
It is such a tragedy to have a young talented woman die the way she did. May God Bless her soul forever. Rest in Peace Claudia Heill...
A G
April 02, 2011 | Niceville, FL
I give you my sympathy for the death of your loved one. I cannot imagine what this has been like for you.
Brian Wong
April 02, 2011 | Washington, DC
In this difficult time please find comfort from the many wonderful memories.Psalms34:18 says God is near to those broken at heart.
Cynthia
April 02, 2011 | OH
Deepest condolences for the loss of your loved one. May our Heavenly Father, the God of comfort and tender mercies be with you all. With deep sympathy,
Harts
April 02, 2011 | Woodbridge, VA