German soccer player Sebastian Hertner has tragically died in a ski lift crash in Montenegro. The 34-year-old man was identified after a tourist was killed at the Savin Kuk ski resort near Zabljak when a double chairlift cable came loose and hit the back seat, local reports said.
Mr. Hertner fell from the elevator and died at the scene, while his wife, who was also a passenger, was trapped in a chair and rescued by emergency services. She suffered a broken leg and at least three other tourists were left in their seats for hours until rescuers brought them safely to the ground.
The German defender played professionally in his home country for 1860 Munich, Erzgebirge Aue and Darmstadt Second Division. He was also captain of fifth division team ETSV Hamburg.
“It is with great sadness that we announce today that our captain Sebastian Hertner passed away in a tragic accident while on holiday. We are stunned and incredibly sad. Our deepest condolences go to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Sebastian,” the club wrote on Instagram.
Härtner played for Germany’s youth teams and represented his country at U-18 and U-19 level, alongside future international players such as Christoph Kramer and Felix Kroos.
Although the official cause of death has not been confirmed, authorities have ordered the immediate closure of the lift, police have launched an investigation and a full technical inspection of the lift will be carried out.
“We insist on a comprehensive and transparent investigation to identify those responsible,” Zabljak Mayor Rados Zugic said.
Bundesliga side Stuttgart, where Härtner spent seven years as an academy player, said: “VfB Stuttgart mourns the loss of former player Sebastian Härtner, who has tragically passed away at the age of 34. In the summer of 2005, Sebastian Härtner joined VfB Stuttgart’s youth organization from KSG Gerlingen.
“For seven years he wore the red and white jersey for the youth and reserve teams. The left-back made 65 appearances for VfB II in the 3rd division. Over the next few years he played for clubs such as Erzgebirge Aue, Darmstadt 98 and TSV 1860 Munich in the 2.Bundesliga. Most recently, he played for ETSV Hamburg in the Oberliga.” (Fifth Division).
“We would like to express our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. VfB Stuttgart will cherish the memory of Sebastian Härtner.”
