German Olympic and world champion biathlete Laura Dahlmeier sustained serious injuries after a rockfall struck her on Laila Peak (6,094 meters) in the remote Hushe Valley of Baltistan, Pakistan, the Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP) confirmed on Tuesday.
ACP Vice President Karrar Haidri reported that the accident occurred on Monday, July 28, at an altitude of approximately 5,700 meters. Dahlmeier was climbing alongside her mountaineering partner, Marina Eva, when a sudden rockfall caused her significant injuries.
Shipton Treks & Tours organised the expedition, and the owner, Iqbal, immediately notified emergency services after the incident. Pakistan Army Aviation helicopters, along with local high-altitude porters, launched a rescue operation to reach the injured athlete. However, poor weather conditions and treacherous terrain prevented helicopters from landing at the site on the first day. Air evacuation efforts resumed on Tuesday, with ground rescue teams prepared to step in as soon as weather permits.
Two-time Olympic gold medalist Laura Dahlmeier was seriously injured while climbing Laila Peak.
A rescue team is currently coordinating the operation, supported by the experienced mountainers in the area. pic.twitter.com/IT5grimydG
— Alpine Adventure Guides (@Alpine_Pakistan) July 30, 2025Marina Eva, Dahlmeier’s climbing partner, descended safely to base camp and remains in good health. Meanwhile, rescue teams continue to monitor the situation closely, staying on standby as harsh weather persists.
This latest incident highlights the ongoing risks associated with mountaineering in the Karakoram. Earlier this month, renowned Czech climber Klara Kolouchova lost her life while attempting to summit Nanga Parbat. According to Additional Deputy Commissioner Diamir, Nizamuddin, Kolouchova suffered a fatal fall between Camp One and Camp Two. Authorities continue their search and recovery operation in extremely challenging conditions.
Nanga Parbat, nicknamed the “Killer Mountain,” is notorious for its technical difficulty and high fatality rate, serving as a sombre reminder of the dangers climbers face on Pakistan’s highest peaks.
