Double Olympic gold medallist and beloved German biathlete Laura Dahlmeier has died in a climbing accident at the age of 31.

The retired athlete was fatally struck by falling rocks while ascending Laila Peak in Pakistan’s remote Karakoram mountain range on Monday. Her death was confirmed by her management team and the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB), who expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of one of Germany’s most admired sportswomen.

“The DOSB and the whole of German sport mourn the loss of Laura Dahlmeier,” said DOSB President Thomas Weikert in a statement to CNN Sports. “We are deeply shocked by the sudden and much too early death of this wonderful person. Our thoughts are with her family and friends and we will offer our support wherever we can.”

Dahlmeier was climbing with her partner, Marina Eva, who managed to send a distress signal after the accident. However, treacherous weather conditions and poor visibility delayed the rescue mission. According to local authorities, helicopters were unable to reach the scene until Tuesday morning due to the remoteness of the area.

Dahlmeier rose to prominence as a force in biathlon, making history at the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang where she became the first female biathlete to win gold in both the sprint and pursuit events at a single Games. Her Olympic triumph followed a stellar season in 2017, when she became the first biathlete to win five gold medals at one world championship.

She retired from professional sport in 2019 at just 25, choosing to step away while at the top of her game. After her retirement, Dahlmeier remained an active and passionate advocate for nature, adventure and social causes.

“Laura was a role model and inspiration to so many of us in and out of sport,” Weikert continued. “She always had clear goals in mind and pursued her dreams.”

Her Instagram page, now filled with tributes and messages of mourning, carried a poignant farewell:

“Farewell to a wonderful person! Laura enriched the lives of many, including our own, with her warm and straightforward manner… We are deeply grateful, dear Laura, that we were allowed to share our lives with you. Our shared moments and memories give us the strength and courage to continue on our path.”

Thomas Weikert concluded: “Laura Dahlmeier leaves behind a legacy that goes far beyond medals: her dedication to sport, her passion for nature and her commitment to society make her an inspiring personality. Her story remains. As a daughter, sister, friend, Olympian and biathlon legend. Laura will forever remain an integral part of Team Germany. We will miss her.”

Dahlmeier is remembered not only as a record-breaking athlete, but as a bright, kind and driven woman who lived with purpose and heart.

Images: Instagram