Two-time biathlon gold medalist Laura Dahlmeier killed in mountaineering accident

German biathlon champion Laura Dahlmeier, who captured two gold medals at the 2018 Olympics, died in mountaineering accident in a remote range of Pakistan, officials said Wednesday

German biathlon champion Laura Dahlmeier, who captured two gold medals at the 2018 Olympics, died in mountaineering accident in a remote range of Pakistan, officials said Wednesday.

Dahlmeier, 31, was going up Laila Peak in the Karakoram mountain range at about noon local time Monday when she was struck by falling rocks, according to statements by her team and Alpine Club of Pakistan Vice President Karrar Haidri.

Laura Dahlmeier after she crossed the finish line during the women's biathlon 10km pursuit at the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympic Games.Sean M. Haffey / Getty ImagesThe accident happened at about 5,700 meters of elevation, and her “climbing partner called emergency services” immediately, her team said.

But “due to the remoteness of the area, a rescue helicopter could not reach the scene” until Tuesday morning, it said.

Haidri said: “Laura died doing what she loved most — pushing her limits in the high mountains. Her strength, determination, and passion have left an indelible mark on both the sporting and mountaineering communities.”