A major search is underway in Portugal as authorities make a final effort to find any trace of missing Madeleine McCann. If no new evidence emerges soon, the main suspect, 48-year-old Christian Brückner, could be released from prison in September.
In a rare interview from prison, Brückner, long suspected in Madeleine’s 2007 disappearance, spoke publicly for the first time. He denied involvement and expressed anger at being labeled a “cruel rapist” by the media. He revealed plans to flee Germany if released, saying, “I’m as well-known as a colorful dog” and that he would go into hiding immediately.
Brückner also described harsh prison conditions, including a recent assault by another inmate, and said he rarely leaves his cell. His lawyer said Brückner has considered moving abroad or even plastic surgery after release.
As the interview was released, German authorities launched a new four-day search near Brückner’s former home in the Algarve, focusing on wells, tanks, and ruins. Despite being the prime suspect since 2020, Brückner has not been charged and continues to deny any involvement in Madeleine’s disappearance.