Norwegian Olympic skier Audun Groenvold has died after being struck by lightning, the Norwegian Ski Federation announced.

“It is with great sadness that we have received the news of Audun Groenvold’s untimely passing,” the federation said in a statement on Wednesday, July 16. He was 49 years old.

“The former national alpine and ski cross athlete was recently struck by lightning during a cabin trip,” the federation said per PEOPLE. “He was quickly taken to hospital and treated for the injuries he sustained in the lightning strike.”

Audun Grønvold (February 28, 1976 – July 15, 2025) was a highly accomplished Norwegian skier known for his success in both alpine skiing and ski cross. Born in Hamar, Norway, Grønvold began his athletic career as an alpine skier, specializing in downhill events. He competed on the World Cup circuit and earned several top finishes, including a podium in 1999. He was also a multiple-time Norwegian national downhill champion, solidifying his status as one of the country’s top alpine athletes.