German biathlon icon Laura Dahlmeier has been found dead after a fatal rockfall on Laila Peak (Karakoram, Pakistan). The accident occurred on 28 July at roughly 5,700 metres; Dahlmeier’s climbing partner immediately alerted rescue teams.
Severe winds and poor visibility grounded the rescue helicopter, forcing a ground operation of four veteran alpinists and two porters split into two teams. After a two‑day search, rescuers confirmed that the 31‑year‑old athlete had succumbed to her injuries.
Dahlmeier, a certified mountain and ski guide and active member of the Bavarian Mountain Rescue Service, had turned to alpinism after ending her biathlon career in 2019. In 2022 her former partner, Robert Grasegger, was killed in a Patagonian avalanche.
Golden career on snow and ice
At the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Games Dahlmeier won two Olympic gold medals and a bronze, adding to seven world championship titles and the overall 2016/17 World Cup crystal globe. Her sudden death has sent shockwaves through both the biathlon and mountaineering communities.
“Laura was not only an extraordinary athlete but also a consummate professional in the mountains,” the German Ski Association said in a statement. “Her passion and joy will be missed beyond measure.”
Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced. Fellow climbers are planning a memorial ascent in her honour once conditions on Laila Peak stabilise.
