German Olympic gold medalist Laura Dahlmeier has died after being injured during an ascent of Laila Peak in northern Pakistan’s Karakoram range, officials confirmed Wednesday.

Dahlmeier, 31, was struck by falling rocks while climbing at an altitude of around 5,700 meters (18,700 feet) on Monday. Persistent bad weather hampered rescue efforts, and her death was confirmed two days later, said Faizullah Faraq, spokesman for the Gilgit-Baltistan regional government.

Her body will be retrieved and taken to the city of Skardu once conditions allow, Faraq said. Military helicopters remain on standby to assist as soon as the weather clears.

“This is a tragic loss. Despite tireless efforts by local rescue teams, the harsh conditions made it impossible to reach her in time,” said Karrar Haidri, vice president of the Alpine Club of Pakistan.

A rescue operation was launched Monday after Dahlmeier’s climbing partner, Marina Eva, sent a distress signal. Eva was unhurt and managed to descend to base camp Tuesday with the help of rescuers.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier paid tribute to the athlete, calling her “an exceptional sportswoman” and “an ambassador for our country in the world.” He recalled presenting her with the Silver Laurel Leaf, Germany’s highest sports honor, following her first Olympic gold medal win in 2018.

Dahlmeier was a celebrated biathlete, winning two Olympic golds and the 2017 women’s biathlon World Cup before retiring from competitive sport in 2019.

The Gilgit-Baltistan region, which borders China, is home to some of the world’s highest and most challenging peaks, including K2. Mountaineering accidents are not uncommon in the area, where weather and terrain pose constant risks to climbers.