Two renowned Japanese mountain climbers fell from Pakistan’s K2, according to officials on Sunday. A helicopter rescue attempt spotted the climbers but was unable to proceed due to adverse conditions.

Experienced climbers Kazuya Hiraide and Kenro Nakajima were trying to scale the challenging western face of K2, the world’s second-highest peak. They were employing a fast-paced climbing technique with minimal use of fixed ropes.

On Saturday, they fell from a height of 7,500 meters (24,600 feet), according to Karrar Haidri, Secretary of the Alpine Club of Pakistan.

Wali Ullah Falahi, the deputy commissioner of Shigar district, which includes K2, stated that a helicopter rescue attempt was made but was unsuccessful because the helicopter could not land.

“After a detailed inspection, the helicopter crew saw the climbers’ bodies and confirmed there was no movement, so the helicopter returned,” Falahi told AFP. No official confirmation of their deaths has been provided by any organization yet.

Ishii Sports, the Japanese outdoor brand backing the climbers, stated that the helicopter had to abort its landing due to the high altitude and steep slope.

The firm added, “The pilot reported seeing the two climbers, but their condition remains uncertain. We are assessing our next steps for a rescue.” Rescue efforts on K2 are highly dangerous, particularly on the southeastern ridge, the most frequently used route.

The ACP highlighted that both Hiraide and Nakajima had earned multiple Piolets d’Or awards, recognizing their exceptional achievements in climbing. They had rigorously prepared for their K2 expedition, reflecting their dedication to the sport.

This summer, three other Japanese climbers have tragically lost their lives in Pakistan, all while attempting to climb Spantik, a 7,027-meter peak in the Gilgit-Baltistan region.