ŽABLJAK, MONTENEGRO – The football world is in mourning following the tragic death of former German professional defender Sebastian Hertner, who died on Saturday afternoon after a catastrophic mechanical failure on a chairlift at the Savin Kuk ski resort.

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The 34-year-old, who was vacationing in the Durmitor Mountains, fell approximately 70 meters (230 feet) to his death after his chairlift reportedly malfunctioned and slid down the cable.

Details of the Accident

The incident occurred at approximately 1:10 p.m. on December 20, 2025, on the steep second section of the Savin Kuk cable car. According to preliminary reports from local authorities, the “basket” carrying Hertner and his partner began to slide backward down the steel cable.

The chair collided with the one behind it with such force that Hertner was catapulted from his seat. His wife, Hanah Espandschied (30), witnessed the fall. While she managed to remain on the lift, she suffered serious injuries, including a broken leg, and was trapped high above the ground for several hours.

Mountain rescue services (GSS Montenegro) launched a complex operation in freezing conditions, eventually rescuing the widow and three other foreign tourists who were suspended on the line. The operation was completed by 5:00 p.m.

Tributes Pour In

Hertner was a well-known figure in German football, having made over 200 professional appearances in the 2. Bundesliga and 3. Liga. His former clubs and current teammates have expressed their shock and grief:

• ETSV Hamburg (Current Club): “It is with great sadness that we announce our captain Sebastian Hertner has died in a tragic accident. We are stunned and incredibly sad.”

• SV Darmstadt 98: “Our aufrichtiges Mitgefühl (sincere sympathy) goes out to his family and friends. We will cherish the memory of Sebastian Hertner.”

• VfB Stuttgart: The club where Hertner began his youth career stated they would “keep an honorable memory” of the defender.

During his career, Hertner represented high-profile clubs including 1860 Munich, Erzgebirge Aue, and SV Darmstadt 98. He was also a former German youth international, playing alongside notable stars such as Christoph Kramer and Felix Kroos.

Investigation Underway

The Mayor of Žabljak, Rados Zugic, confirmed that a formal investigation has been launched by the Basic State Prosecutor’s Office.

“We insist on a comprehensive and transparent investigation to determine who is responsible,” Zugic told local media. “The safety of our guests is essential, and there are no circumstances that can justify the loss of human life.”

While resort officials claim the lift had undergone regular maintenance and technical inspections prior to the winter season, the aging infrastructure of the region is now under intense scrutiny. A mechanical engineering expert has been assigned to determine exactly why the grip on the steel cable failed.

Hertner is survived by his wife and family.