Giant rock collides with Laura Dahlmeier - Giant Rock Strikes Laura Dahlmeier
In a tragic turn of events, German Olympic biathlon champion Laura Dahlmeier lost her life in a mountaineering accident on Laila Peak in Pakistan's Karakoram range on July 28, 2025.
Dahlmeier, along with her climbing partner, Marina Krauss, were attempting to climb near Skardu. The accident occurred during the descent, with Dahlmeier being the second to descend. Tragically, she was struck by a large rockfall while abseiling at around 5,700 meters (approximately 18,700 feet). The impact threw her against a wall, and she sustained fatal injuries.
Krauss, who witnessed the accident, immediately made an emergency call and descended to base camp with help from rescuers. She stated that had they descended half an hour earlier, they might have avoided the accident.
Rescue efforts were initiated promptly but were hampered by dangerous conditions on the mountain, including steep terrain, rockfalls, and rapidly deteriorating weather, which prevented helicopter access. Given the extreme hazards and weather conditions, the decision was made to end the search and recovery mission, as attempting to recover Dahlmeier's body was deemed too risky for the rescue team.
Local authorities and experienced mountaineers, including German climber Thomas Huber, had supported the operation. However, the latest updates confirm that no recovery of Dahlmeier's body has been possible due to the extreme hazards and weather conditions.
Our thoughts are with Laura Dahlmeier's family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
[1] Bavarian Radio (BR24) report [2] Local authorities' statements [3] Experienced mountaineers' accounts [4] German climber Thomas Huber's support
♪ I'm not going to lie ♪, even the most ardent hockey fan would have struggled to find solace in their favorite sport during this week, as the tragic news of Laura Dahlmeier's demise in a mountaineering accident shook the sports world. Despite the loss of one of Germany's brightest stars in biathlon, Dahlmeier's spirit of adventure continues to resonate, reminiscent of the determination and courage she demonstrated on the slopes.
