Olympic Champion Laura Dahlmeier Dies in Pakistan Rockfall

Laura Dahlmeier, a two-time Olympic biathlon gold medalist from Germany, has died at the age of 31 following a mountaineering accident in Pakistan’s Karakoram mountain range.

According to reports, Dahlmeier and her climbing partner, Marina Eva, were at about 5,700 meters (18,700 feet) on Laila Peak when a rockfall occurred on July 28. Eva called emergency services immediately, and rescue teams from Germany and the U.S. were deployed. However, bad weather and dangerous conditions made the rescue operation extremely difficult.

Her management confirmed on Wednesday that she likely died on the same day as the accident. A recovery mission was launched but later cancelled due to the high risk of rockfalls and unstable weather.

In a statement posted on her Instagram, it was shared that Laura had left clear written instructions asking that no one should risk their lives to save her in such a situation. She also requested that her body remain on the mountain if a safe recovery was not possible.

The sports world is mourning her loss. The German Olympic Sports Confederation described her as more than a champion — “someone with heart, attitude, and vision.” IOC President Kirsty Coventry said Dahlmeier “lost her life in her beloved mountains” and will be remembered forever. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier praised her as an ambassador of peace and sportsmanship.

Dahlmeier had a remarkable career. At the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, she became the first woman to win both the sprint and pursuit biathlon events. She earned seven World Championship golds and 15 total medals before retiring in 2019 to focus on mountain climbing and environmental work.

Her tragic death marks a heartbreaking end to a life filled with achievement, adventure, and inspiration.