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Mountaineer Kai Mosbacher has gone missing under extreme conditions.

Despite extensive efforts, the accomplished mountain climber from Garmisch-Partenkirchen has yet to be found. Currently, the search for him has been temporarily halted, as confirmed by the local police.

Mountaineer Kai Mosbacher Has Gone Missing in an Expedition
Mountaineer Kai Mosbacher Has Gone Missing in an Expedition

Mountaineer Kai Mosbacher has gone missing under extreme conditions.

In the picturesque Carinthian Alps of Austria, the search for renowned mountaineer Kai Mosbacher has been temporarily halted. The 62-year-old climber, known as the "Steppenwolf" for his solitary ascents on the highest peaks, disappeared on Monday, September 8, 2025, around 5 pm.

Mosbacher, standing at 6'3" tall and slim with longer brown hair, was last heard from after sending a selfie from the summit of the Schwarzkopf (3174 meters) in the district of Spittal an der Drau, Carinthia. Since then, he has not made contact and has not been seen since.

The vast area covering approximately 1,200 square kilometers and potential hazards like crevasses have made the search challenging. The mountain rescue services of Mallnitz, Lieser-Maltatal, and Bad Gastein, as well as the Alpine Police, have been involved in the search so far. However, the unsuccessful searches in the Ankogel region and Garmisch-Partenkirchen, where Mosbacher resides, have led to the temporary suspension of the search.

Mosbacher's unique climbing style, which includes refusing to use a rope because he would have to adapt to others, adds another layer of complexity to the search. His preference for traveling alone and his Asperger's syndrome, which makes him avoid crowds and loud noises, also contribute to the difficulties in locating him.

Despite the challenges, the search has not been limited to the Carinthian Alps. It has extended to the regions of Salzburg and several glaciers. An acquaintance of Mosbacher has posted his last photo and a description on Facebook, hoping to garner more attention and potentially new leads.

Mosbacher, who has climbed 4,000m peaks and 16,000m peaks, is a seasoned climber. His disappearance has sent shockwaves through the mountaineering community, with many expressing their concerns and offering support during this difficult time.

The search will not be resumed until new leads arrive. Until then, the mountain rescue services and the Alpine Police continue to monitor the area, hoping for a break in the case that will lead them to Mosbacher's whereabouts.

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