A German tourist has been killed in a horrific ski lift accident in Montenegro, with his wife witnessing the tragedy unfold beside him.
The Moment of Disaster
The fatal incident occurred at approximately 1pm on Saturday, 22 December 2025 at the Savin Kuk ski resort near the mountain town of Žabljak in northern Montenegro. The couple, a 34-year-old man and his 30-year-old wife from Germany, were riding the lift when their chair suddenly and catastrophically malfunctioned.
According to initial reports, their ski lift chair slid approximately 230 feet (70 metres) backwards along the cable. It then collided violently with another chair travelling behind them. The force of the impact proved fatal for the husband, while his wife survived the crash.
Resort Location and Response
The Savin Kuk resort is situated on the slopes of Mount Durmitor, a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. At the time of the accident, the area was covered in snow, presenting typical seasonal conditions. Emergency services were swiftly dispatched to the scene following the crash.
Local authorities have launched an immediate investigation to determine the precise cause of the mechanical failure. The focus will be on the lift's maintenance records, safety mechanisms, and operational procedures. The resort management is expected to cooperate fully with the ongoing probe.
Broader Implications for Ski Safety
This tragic event sends shockwaves through the international skiing community and raises urgent questions about lift safety standards at resorts across Europe. While such incidents are statistically rare, their consequences are devastating.
The accident serves as a stark reminder for all winter holidaymakers to remain vigilant and to familiarise themselves with resort safety protocols. It also underscores the critical importance of rigorous, regular maintenance and inspection regimes for all ski lift infrastructure.
Our thoughts are with the victim's family, particularly his wife who endured this traumatic event. The investigation continues as officials work to provide answers and prevent a similar tragedy from occurring in the future.
