German Olympian killed in Pakistan: Officials abandon body retrieval
Laura Dahlmeier Unwilling to Risk Rescuers in Fatal Mountaineering Accident
German Olympic biathlete Laura Dahlmeier was declared dead on Wednesday after a rockfall struck her while climbing at an altitude of 5,700 metres on Laila Peak in the Karakoram range of Pakistan.
Abandoned Recovery Efforts
- The management agency agreed to suspend body recovery due to “dangerous” conditions at the site.
- In consultation with the Alpine Club of Pakistan, the agency said relatives would continue monitoring the situation and keep the option of staging a rescue later.
Respecting Dahlmeier’s Wishes
Several colleagues confirmed the two‑time Olympic gold medalist had expressed a desire to avoid rescue operations that could endanger others.
- Thomas Huber, part of a rescue team, told reporters: “We have decided she should stay, because that was her wish.”
- American Jackson Marvell described the idea of recovering her body as “disrespectful” to her wishes and outlined the incredible risks involved, both on foot and by helicopter.
Incident Remarks from Climbing Partner
Marina Krauss, Dahlmeier’s climbing partner, recounted the moment of the incident:
- “I saw Laura being hit by a huge rock and then being thrown against the wall. And from that moment on, she didn’t move again,” Krauss said.
- She was unable to reach Dahlmeier and appealed for outside support: “It was impossible for me to get there safely. It was clear to me the only way to help her was to call a helicopter.”
- “She only had a chance if help arrived immediately,” she added.
Career Highlights
Dahlmeier’s illustrious career included seven world championship gold medals. At the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, she became the first woman biathlete to win both the sprint and the pursuit at the same Games.
Retirement
She retired from professional competition in 2019 at the age of 25.
