Mountain avalanche in Pakistan raises worries about biathlete Laura Dahlmeier
In a heartbreaking turn of events, former German biathlete Laura Dahlmeier lost her life on July 28, 2025, during a mountaineering expedition on Laila Peak in Pakistan's Karakoram range.
The 31-year-old two-time Olympic gold medallist was struck by a rockfall at an altitude of around 5,700 meters (approximately 18,700 feet) and did not survive the impact.
Dahlmeier had announced her plans for the next big expedition on Instagram on June 28, marking the beginning of her journey in the Karakoram mountains. Her climbing partner, Marina Eva, survived and was able to descend to base camp to call for help.
Rescue attempts were launched immediately after the accident but were severely hampered by bad weather and poor visibility, preventing immediate helicopter access to the site. The rope partner placed an emergency call immediately after the incident, initiating a rescue operation.
The search for Dahlmeier was temporarily suspended in the evening due to darkness, with the operation resuming the next morning. However, the ongoing risk of rockslides in the area and harsh conditions made it impossible to reach her.
Laila Peak, located near K2, the second-highest mountain in the world, near the border with China, was the second planned summit goal for Dahlmeier. She had already successfully climbed the Great Trango Tower (6,287 m) on July 8.
Dahlmeier was climbing with a rope partner in an alpine style, which involves light equipment and no expedition logistics. This adventurous approach, however, proved to be fatal in this instance.
Dahlmeier retired from competitive sports at the age of 25 in May 2019 and had since been active as a TV expert for ZDF, alongside her mountain and climbing tours. Her passion for the mountains was evident, as she had been sharply critical of mass tourism, especially in the Himalayas.
The mountaineering community, including experienced international mountaineers and mountaineers in the region, has provided support during this difficult time. Magdalena Neuner, the twelve-time world champion, and other athletes have expressed their condolences and support for Dahlmeier on Instagram.
Our thoughts are with Laura Dahlmeier's family, friends, and fans during this tragic time. May her memory live on in the hearts of those she inspired and the mountains she conquered.
[1] Mountain Climber Laura Dahlmeier Dies in Karakoram Mountains
[2] Former Biathlete Laura Dahlmeier Dies in Mountaineering Accident
[3] German Biathlete Laura Dahlmeier Dies in Mountaineering Accident
[4] International Mountain Rescue Team Coordinates Recovery Effort for Laura Dahlmeier
[5] Mountaineer Laura Dahlmeier Dies in Laila Peak Accident
[1] "General news outlets have reported a tragic car-accident involving international mountaineer and former biathlete, Laura Dahlmeier."
[2] "The sports world was saddened to learn of a mountain-climbing accident that claimed the life of two-time Olympic gold medalist, Laura Dahlmeier."
