Olympic Biathlon Champion Laura Dahlmeier Dies in Pakistan Mountaineering Accident

Laura Dahlmeier, a German athlete who achieved double Olympic gold in biathlon, has died following a mountaineering accident in Pakistan. The news was confirmed by her management team and local authorities on Wednesday.

The accident took place on Monday around midday at an elevation of approximately 5,700 meters on Laila Peak. Dahlmeier was climbing with a partner when a sudden rockfall occurred in the Hushe Valley, within the Gilgit-Baltistan region. Adverse weather conditions hindered the deployment of a rescue helicopter.

Teams of experienced climbers from Germany and the United States were dispatched to search for her. They confirmed her death. A statement from her management indicated that Dahlmeier passed away on July 28th during the mountain accident. A recovery operation was initiated but was ultimately called off on the evening of July 29th.

Her representatives stated that Dahlmeier likely died instantly, while her climbing partner was unharmed. Dahlmeier had expressed in writing that in such a situation, no one should risk their life to recover her body, and that she wished to remain on the mountain. Her family's wishes aligned with this.

The provincial government spokesperson identified her climbing partner as Marina Eva Krauss. Krauss safely descended to base camp and is reported to be in good health.

Dahlmeier, who was 31 years old, retired from biathlon in 2019 at the age of 25. She had made history at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics as the first female biathlete to win both the sprint and pursuit gold medals at the same Games.

Tributes have poured in from various organizations. The President of the International Olympic Committee, Kirsty Coventry, stated that Dahlmeier would be remembered forever. The German Olympic Sports Confederation expressed deep sorrow, describing her as someone with heart, attitude, and vision.

Dahlmeier, a native of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, was also honored by the premier of her home state, Markus Soeder. The International Biathlon Union also expressed its condolences, noting her passion for life and the lasting inspiration she provided.