German Olympic Champion Laura Dahlmeier Dies in Pakistan Mountaineering Tragedy

GILGIT-BALTISTAN, PAKISTAN — German Olympic gold medalist and world-renowned biathlete Laura Dahlmeier has died in a tragic mountaineering accident while climbing Laila Peak, one of Pakistan’s most iconic summits in the Karakoram mountain range, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.

The 31-year-old, who transitioned from elite sports to high-altitude climbing after her retirement, was reportedly struck by a sudden rockfall while ascending the mountain at an elevation of around 5,700 meters. The incident took place midday on July 28, as confirmed by the Alpine Club of Pakistan.

Dahlmeier had been climbing with a partner, who was unharmed in the rockfall and remained at the location. Due to worsening weather conditions, rescue helicopters were unable to reach the site, and a recovery effort was officially called off on the evening of July 29.

Her management released a statement saying:

“It was Laura’s written wish that, should such an incident occur, no one should risk their life to retrieve her. Her family has chosen to honor that wish.”

The former athlete was known for her deep respect for nature and often expressed her desire to live and die in the mountains. Dahlmeier had been exploring Gilgit-Baltistan since late June and had already successfully scaled the Great Trango Tower, another challenging peak in the Karakoram.

Laura Dahlmeier was a two-time Olympic gold medalist in biathlon and a seven-time world champion, admired globally for her dedication and mental strength. After retiring from competitive sport in 2019, she shifted focus to mountaineering and environmental activism, inspiring countless young athletes with her passion for the outdoors.

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