Former German international footballer Sebastian Hertner has died after falling from a chairlift at the Savin Kuk ski resort in Montenegro. The 34-year-old plunged approximately 70 metres to the ground in an accident witnessed by his wife.
According to initial reports, a double chairlift detached from its cable and collided with the seat behind it. Hertner's wife, aged 30, was trapped in the chair and suffered a broken leg; she was rescued by emergency services. At least three other tourists were stranded for several hours before being brought down safely.
Hertner played professionally in Germany for clubs including 1860 Munich, Erzgebirge Aue, and Darmstadt in the second division, and later captained ETSV Hamburg in the fifth tier. He was a former youth international and a highly regarded prospect who played alongside future senior internationals Christoph Kramer and Felix Kroos.
ETSV Hamburg paid tribute, stating: '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. Rest in peace, Sebastian.' His first club, VfB Stuttgart, also mourned his loss, highlighting his 65 games for their reserve side in the 3. Liga.
Montenegrin authorities ordered the immediate closure of the chairlift as prosecutors launched an investigation. Zabljak mayor Rados Zugic said: 'We insist on a comprehensive and transparent investigation to determine those responsible.' A full technical inspection of the lift is to be conducted.
