Christian Brueckner Breaks Silence Amid Renewed Search in Madeleine McCann Case, Hints at Disappearance Upon Release
As authorities ramp up efforts to solve the nearly two-decade-old mystery of Madeleine McCann’s disappearance, the man widely regarded as the prime suspect, Christian Brueckner, has spoken out publicly for the first time from behind bars.
The convicted sex offender, currently serving a sentence for an unrelated 2005 rape case, revealed chilling plans to vanish should he be released later this year—statements that have sparked widespread concern and outrage.
Brueckner, 48, a German national imprisoned in Sehnde for the rape of a 72-year-old woman in Praia da Luz—a crime he maintains he did not commit—is expected to complete his sentence by September unless new charges arise.
Speaking exclusively to German journalist Ulrich Oppold of RTL from his prison cell, Brueckner shared his intentions post-release: a simple desire for steak and beer, but also a more ominous plan to disappear, potentially fleeing to a country without extradition treaties.
“I’m as conspicuous as a colorful dog,” he remarked, referencing the intense media scrutiny surrounding his name.
The suspect lambasted the press portrayal of him, claiming wrongful imprisonment and expressing frustration over being labeled a “brutal rapist” in the public eye. His lawyer, Philipp Marquort, has hinted at Brueckner’s considerations to relocate abroad—and possibly undergo plastic surgery to alter his appearance.
The interview also revealed that Brueckner had recently been the victim of a violent attack by another inmate, resulting in at least one broken rib. Since that assault, he has reportedly isolated himself completely, refusing to leave his cell or even join others for meals.
Oppold described the interviewee as intelligent yet reserved, noting Brueckner’s precise control over what he chose to discuss—and what he withheld.
Despite being named the prime suspect in Madeleine McCann’s disappearance, Brueckner has not been formally charged in connection with the case and declined to comment on it during the interview after consulting with his defense team, firmly denying any involvement.
Meanwhile, in Portugal, authorities have launched a significant new phase of investigation near Praia da Luz. A combined force of approximately 30 officers from Germany’s Federal Criminal Police (BKA) and Portuguese investigators have cordoned off rural areas and are meticulously combing through 21 private land plots, totaling roughly 120 acres. Their search includes wells, water tanks, and derelict structures, with plans to deploy ground-penetrating radar technology in an effort to uncover new clues.
Christian Brueckner’s candid remarks mark a rare glimpse into the mind of the man at the center of one of the world’s most high-profile missing person cases. His indication of intent to disappear upon release adds a dramatic layer to an already complex investigation. As search teams continue to probe the area and investigators hold open the possibility of new charges, the long shadow cast by Madeleine McCann’s disappearance remains very much alive. The coming months could be pivotal in unraveling this haunting mystery and potentially delivering the answers the world has waited for since 2007.