German professional footballer falls 70 meters from a chairlift and dies in front of his wife

The impact caused the former German youth international to lose his balance and fall from a great height. Emergency services could no longer do anything for him; he died on the spot from his injuries.

Authorities are investigating cause of Hertner accident

His wife, who was in the elevator with him, became stuck and was seriously injured. She was later freed by rescue services and taken to hospital, where she underwent surgery. Several other tourists escaped unscathed, but were stuck in the elevator for some time.

Hertner played for TSV 1860 Munich, Erzgebirge Aue and SV Darmstadt 98, among others. He also played for the German national youth teams (Under 18 and Under 19).

Montenegrin authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident. Technical experts examine whether there was overdue maintenance or a construction defect on the chairlift. The ski area is partly closed for the time being. .