German Tourist Dies After Ski Lift Collision in Montenegro

A tragic incident occurred this past weekend at the Savin Kuk ski resort near Žabljak, Montenegro, where a German tourist fell approximately 230 feet to his death following a collision involving two ski lifts. The incident took place on December 21, 2023, and the victim has been identified only as a 34-year-old man from Germany. His wife, who was riding beside him, sustained serious injuries during the accident.

According to reports from multiple sources, including the German newspaper Die Frankfurter Rundschau and Montenegrin outlets Vijesti and Pobjeda, the collision involved two double chairlifts that collided while transporting skiers. Witnesses indicated that one of the cable car baskets slipped and struck the basket in front of it, resulting in the fatal fall of the man. The woman, a 30-year-old German, was trapped in the same basket and later transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Medical reports indicate that she suffered a fractured femur and a head injury. Following the collision, local authorities immediately shut down the ski lift to facilitate an investigation into the cause of the accident. This closure left at least three other tourists stranded on the lift for several hours until rescue workers could evacuate them, despite challenging weather conditions in the rugged mountainous area.

The local government has not yet disclosed the identities of those involved, and an official determination regarding the cause of the crash remains pending. Rados Zugic, the Mayor of Žabljak, has called for a thorough investigation, stating, “We insist on a comprehensive and transparent investigation to determine who is responsible.”

Montenegro, known for its stunning mountainous terrain, has become a popular destination for skiing in recent years, attracting tourists seeking affordable winter sports options. The tragic accident at the Savin Kuk ski resort has raised concerns about safety measures in place at ski facilities across the region.

As authorities continue their investigation, the community mourns the loss of the tourist and hopes for a swift recovery for his wife.