Tragic loss of a double Olympic champion as falling rocks claim life during a climbing accident in the Karakoram mountains
Tragically, German biathlon champion Laura Dahlmeier lost her life in a mountaineering accident on Laila Peak, located in the Karakoram mountain range in Pakistan, on July 28, 2025.
Dahlmeier, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and seven-time world champion, was descending the mountain after turning back due to deteriorating conditions when she was struck by a sudden rockfall at approximately 18,700 feet (5,700 meters). Her climbing partner, Marina Eva, immediately made a distress call, but Dahlmeier showed no signs of life after the impact.
The accident occurred on Laila Peak, a mountain that, while not one of the biggest in the Karakoram region, still presents significant dangers due to its remoteness and unpredictable weather conditions. Laila Peak is part of the Karakoram mountain range, which is best known as the home of the world's second-tallest mountain, K2, and spans five countries and 29,789 square miles.
Rescue efforts were hampered by ongoing rockfalls, steep and dangerous terrain, and worsening weather conditions. Despite the efforts of rescue teams and fellow climbers, including German mountaineers, Dahlmeier's body remains unrecovered as of July 30.
The family will make the final decision on retrieving Dahlmeier's body. A statement posted to Dahlmeier's Instagram expressed her wishes not to have anyone risk their lives to recover her body in the case of an accident.
Tributes poured in from around the world, honouring Dahlmeier's achievements and describing her as a "wonderful person" with a warm and straightforward personality who enriched many lives.
[1] BBC News, "German biathlon champion Laura Dahlmeier dies in mountaineering accident," July 30, 2025. [2] The Guardian, "Laura Dahlmeier: German biathlete dies in mountaineering accident in Pakistan," July 30, 2025. [3] Reuters, "German biathlete Laura Dahlmeier dies in mountaineering accident in Pakistan," July 30, 2025.
The unfortunate incident that claimed Dahlmeier's life occurred while she was engaging in mountaineering activities on Laila Peak, a formidable sports challenge known for its dangerous weather conditions and remote location. Despite the international community's tributes to her achievements and warm personality, efforts to recover her body have been put on hold according to her expressed wishes.
