Former German international footballer is killed after falling from ski-slope chair-lift in front of his wife: Club says it is ‘stunned and incredibly sad’

A former German international footballer has been killed after plunging from a chairlift at a ski resort in Montenegro, in an accident witnessed by his wife.

Sebastian Hertner, 34, died at the Savin Kuk ski resort near the mountain town of Žabljak after a double chairlift became detached from its cable and collided with the seat behind it, according to initial reports. 

The incident happened while the couple were on holiday in the Durmitor mountain range, a popular winter tourism area in northern Montenegro, on Saturday

Hertner fell from the lift and died at the scene. His 30-year-old wife, who was riding with him, was left trapped in the chair and had to be rescued by emergency services.

She suffered a broken leg and was taken for medical treatment. 

At least three other tourists were also left stranded in their chairs for several hours before rescue teams were able to bring them down safely.

Hertner was a former defender who played professionally in Germany, featuring for clubs including 1860 Munich, Erzgebirge Aue and Darmstadt in the second division.

He later captained ETSV Hamburg in the Oberliga, Germany’s fifth tier.

Ski lifts at Savin Kuk, where the tragic incident occured 

His club confirmed his death in a statement posted on Instagram, saying their captain had died in a tragic accident while on vacation and expressing deep sorrow at the loss.

It said: ‘It is with great sadness that we announce today that our captain Sebastian Hertner has died in a tragic accident while on holiday. 

‘We are stunned and incredibly sad. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Sebastian.’

The news prompted an outpouring of tributes from teammates and former colleagues.

During his youth career, Hertner was regarded as a standout prospect and represented Germany at the under-18 and under-19 levels. 

He played alongside future senior internationals, including World Cup winner Christoph Kramer and Felix Kroos. 

Montenegrin authorities ordered the immediate closure of the chairlift following the incident as prosecutors launched an investigation. 

No official cause had been confirmed by Sunday, with officials saying a full technical inspection of the lift would be carried out.  

During his youth career, Hertner represented Germany at the under-18 and under-19 levels

Žabljak mayor Radoš Žugić said the incident was being treated with the utmost seriousness, stressing that visitor safety was essential in a region that relies heavily on tourism.

‘We insist on a comprehensive and transparent investigation to determine those responsible,’ he said.

Despite the fatal accident, Serbian news outlet Blic reported that the ski lift had resumed operations the following day.