Come to grief
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Metaphorical Use
It's often used metaphorically to describe plans or ambitions failing, not just physical disasters. 
Many startups come to grief within their first year.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Outcome
Emphasizes an unexpected negative turn of events, particularly when a plan seemed promising. 
Despite careful preparation, their expedition came to grief.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal
Does not literally mean to encounter sorrow; it's a figure of speech for failure. 
His ambitious project came to grief due to lack of funding.