A tragic incident at the Savin Kuk ski resort in northern Montenegro resulted in the death of a 34-year-old German tourist after he fell approximately 230 feet from a ski lift during a collision. The accident occurred on December 21, 2023, while the victim’s wife, a 30-year-old woman, was seated next to him and sustained serious injuries.
Reports from various European news sources, including Die Frankfurter Rundschau and local outlets Vijesti and Pobjeda, indicate that two double chairlifts collided during what was otherwise a typical day at the resort. Witnesses described how one of the cable car baskets slipped and struck the basket in front of it, resulting in the fatal fall of the man from the lift.
The woman was trapped in the same basket during the collision and was subsequently transported to a hospital for treatment. She reportedly suffered a fractured femur and a head injury. Local authorities closed the ski lift following the incident to allow police to conduct an investigation into the cause of the crash.
In the aftermath, at least three other tourists were stranded on the lift for several hours due to the shutdown. Rescue workers managed to evacuate everyone trapped, despite challenging weather conditions in the rugged mountainous region.
Authorities have yet to publicly identify the victims involved in the incident. The cause of the crash remains undetermined, prompting calls for a thorough investigation. Žabljak Mayor Rados Zugic emphasized the need for a comprehensive and transparent inquiry, stating, “We insist on a comprehensive and transparent investigation to determine who is responsible.”
Montenegro, known for its mountainous terrain, has gained popularity in recent years as an affordable skiing destination. The tragic event has raised concerns about safety at ski resorts, highlighting the importance of rigorous maintenance and operational protocols to prevent such accidents.
As investigations continue, the local tourism office has not responded to media inquiries regarding the incident. The ski resort, popular among both locals and tourists, now faces scrutiny over safety measures and emergency response protocols.
