Biathlete Formerly in the Profession Suffers Fatal Consequences Following Avalanche Mishap - Mountain climber's previous career was in biathlon, resulting in tragic death
Tragic Mountaineering Accident Claims Life of Former Biathlete Laura Dahlmeier
In a heartbreaking turn of events, former world-class biathlete Laura Dahlmeier has lost her life in a mountaineering accident. The accident occurred on July 28, 2025, in the Karakorum Mountains of Pakistan.
Dahlmeier, a native of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, was climbing Laila Peak in alpine style with her partner when the accident took place at an altitude of approximately 5,700 to 6,069 meters around noon. The exact cause of the accident remains unknown, but it is believed that Dahlmeier was struck by falling rocks.
Rescue efforts were launched immediately after the incident, but were hindered by bad weather. A helicopter was able to scout the area the following day, but found no signs of life. The search was suspended, respecting Dahlmeier’s explicit desire to remain on the mountain if such a tragic event occurred.
Laura Dahlmeier was a highly experienced mountaineer and a state-certified mountain and ski guide. Prior to her mountaineering career, she was Germany’s most successful biathlete of the decade, winning two Olympic gold medals, a bronze, and multiple World Championship medals. Notably, her former boyfriend, Austrian climber Robert Grasegger, died in a climbing accident caused by an avalanche in 2022, adding a tragic and poignant context to her own death in the mountains.
The recovery of Dahlmeier's body is not feasible for the rescue teams due to current difficult conditions and the high risk involved. An international mountain rescue team, including Thomas Huber, coordinated the recovery operation. However, they were unable to recover her body, as it was Dahlmeier's express wish that no one should risk their life to do so.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to Laura Dahlmeier's family, friends, and the entire mountaineering community during this difficult time.
[1] ZDF News Article [2] BBC News Article [3] The Guardian Article [4] Deutsche Welle Article [5] Mountain Rescue Service Statement
I'm not going to be able to attend the general-news briefing tomorrow due to the tragic events surrounding the accidental death of Laura Dahlmeier. Although I'm usually interested in the latest sports news and sports-analysis, today I'll be focusing on the heartbreaking mountaineering accident that occurred near Laila Peak.
