German footballer Sebastian Hertner has tragically died after a horror ski lift crash in Montenegro. The 34-year-old was identified after a tourist at the Savin kuk ski resort, near Zabljak, died due to a double chairlift detaching from its cable and colliding with the seat behind, according to local reports.

Hertner fell from the lift and died at the scene, while his wife, who was riding alongside him, was trapped in the chair and had to be rescued by emergency services. She suffered a broken leg and at least three other tourists were also stranded in their seats for hours before rescue teams could bring them to the ground safely.

The German defender played professionally in his homeland for 1860 Munich, Erzgebirge Aue and Darmstadt in the second division. He also captained fifth-tier team ETSV Hamburg.

On Instagram, his club wrote: “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.”

Hertner had played for the Germany youth teams, representing his country at Under-18 and Under-19 levels, playing alongside future internationals such as Christoph Kramer and Felix Kroos.

No official cause of death has been confirmed, while authorities have ordered the immediate closure of the chairlift and police launched an investigation and a full technical inspection of the lift will take place.

Zabljak mayor Rados Zugic said: “We insist on a comprehensive and transparent investigation to determine those responsible.”

Bundesliga club Stuttgart, where Hertner spent seven years as an academy player, penned a tribute: “VfB Stuttgart mourns the loss of its former player Sebastian Hertner, who tragically passed away at the age of 34. In the summer of 2005, Sebastian Hertner joined VfB Stuttgart’s youth academy 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 3. Liga (third division). In the following years, he played for clubs including Erzgebirge Aue, Darmstadt 98, and TSV 1860 Munich in the 2. Bundesliga (second division). Most recently, he played for ETSV Hamburg in the Oberliga (fifth division).

“Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and loved ones. VfB Stuttgart will cherish the memory of Sebastian Hertner.”