Two days after her wedding, woman collides head-on with Olympian, who requests to ‘respect my moment of pain and my need for confidentiality.”

A tragic turn of events has cut short the life of a popular German content creator just days after she celebrated her wedding. Laura Viktoria Härtig, who was 30 years old, passed away nearly three weeks after she was involved in a severe bicycle collision while on her honeymoon in Italy.

The New York Post reported that the accident occurred on June 23 near the Sella Pass, which is a well-known mountain gap in Northern Italy. According to PEOPLE, the incident involved a head-on collision between Härtig and Pete Runggaldier, a 57-year-old former Olympic skier who was on a motorcycle. The impact of the crash was severe enough that Härtig’s bicycle snapped in half, throwing her onto the asphalt and leaving her with life-threatening injuries.

Just two days before this incident, Härtig had shared a video on Instagram from her wedding with the caption “Soulmate for life.” The post showed her and her husband reading their vows in an idyllic alpine setting. Per PEOPLE, Härtig was a well-known figure on Instagram, where she maintained a following of over 53,000 people under the handle alltimelaura. She was widely recognized for her content focusing on hiking, cycling, skiing, and her various travel adventures.

Härtig was quickly transported home

Following the collision, the NY Post reported that emergency responders arrived at the scene and performed resuscitation efforts on Härtig before she was airlifted to a local hospital. After spending time in medical care, she was eventually moved to a hospital in Germany to be closer to her family and friends. 

The outlet noted that she died 19 days after the accident while surrounded by her loved ones. The Trento Prosecutor’s Office is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash to better understand how such a collision occurred on the state road.

Härtig, unfortunately, isn’t the only influencer who has met a tragic fate recently. Last month, a wellness influencer attempted to hold out for a natural birth when in labor with her son. Per reports, medical help was offered twice during her home birth, but she refused it. Later, an investigation found that she had died of blood loss.

Pete Runggaldier, who represented Italy in the Winter Olympics in 1994 and 1998, reportedly spoke out about the incident on July 14. He shared a statement on Instagram addressing the situation and requesting privacy as he processes the events. Runggaldier wrote, “Dear friends, in regard to the serious road accident in which I was involved, I ask you to respect my moment of pain and my need for confidentiality.”

The Olympian continued his message by expressing his support for those affected by the crash. “My thoughts go out to all the people involved and their families. I trust in your sensitivity and please understand that at this time I will not give any interviews or statements.” 

The Sella Pass is reportedly known for its stunning mountain views, and it’s a popular spot for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. However, this collision highlights the risks that still exist on the road. Another country popular with tourists is Thailand. Recently, Fitness YouTuber Connor Murphy was visiting Thailand’s Samut Prakan province when reports placed an American man entering a lake. Unfortunately, his body was recovered after half an hour of searching. 

Trento Prosecutor’s Office continues to investigate the collision between Härtig and Runggaldier. Until answers are found, the community that grew around her social media content continues to reflect on the memories she left behind.