A massive search operation is currently in progress for a German tourist who has gone missing in the Scottish Highlands for three days now. Matthias Beutin, aged 57, was last spotted at Blaven car park near Loch Slapin on the Isle of Skye at approximately 11:30 am on Thursday, October 9. He had intended to hike up Bla Bheinn mountain, a renowned peak on the island, but has not made contact with his family since then.
Volunteers from the Skye Mountain Rescue Team were seen combing the hills in adverse weather conditions on Saturday as they continued their efforts to locate Matthias. Various agencies, including a search and rescue dog team and a coastguard helicopter, have joined the search. Unfortunately, as of last night, Matthias remains unaccounted for.
In a Facebook update, the Skye Mountain Rescue Team stated that despite extensive searching on Saturday, Matthias has not been found yet. The team, alongside other groups like the Search & Rescue Dog Association (Scotland), Kintail Mountain Rescue, and Royal Air Force Mountain Rescue Service, covered challenging terrain and poor visibility in the search.
Anyone who may have seen Matthias in the vicinity of Blaven or Loch Slapin on Thursday is urged to come forward with any information, including dash-cam footage or photos that could assist in the search. Police Scotland can be contacted at 101, quoting reference 2588 of October 9.
Described as a white male, approximately 5ft 9in tall with an average build and short dark hair, Matthias was last seen wearing a blue waterproof jacket, brown waterproof trousers, and dark brown Meindl trekking shoes. He was also carrying a small black and orange backpack.
Sergeant David Mockett expressed growing concern for Matthias, highlighting that his disappearance is unusual and out of character. Residents or individuals who have been in the Blaven area since Thursday morning and believe they may have seen Matthias are urged to reach out to the authorities promptly. Drivers with dash-cams are requested to review their footage from the Loch Slapin area for any potential clues that could aid in the search.