Police conclude searches in Portugal in Madeleine McCann investigation
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Madeleine McCann Search Ends Empty-Handed After 3 Days
Above: Members of a search team for Madeleine McCann, who went missing in 2007, shake hands at the end of the day of searching at one of the base camps close to Praia De Luz, Portugal, on June 5, 2025, near the resort where Madeleine was last seen. Image copyright: James Manning/Contributor/PA Images via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
Despite another search ending, hope remains for Madeleine McCann's case. Witness Helge Busching, who was the first to tie Brueckner to McCann's disappearance, is convinced of his guilt and thinks his guilt can still be proven. Continued searches are vital to uncover evidence, ensuring Brueckner stays imprisoned and justice is served for Madeleine.
Narrative B
While everyone wishes this case could be solved, 18 years of flawed investigations, lost forensic evidence, and unstructured searches cast doubt on finding answers. Christian Brueckner's alleged comments and presence in Praia da Luz are weak evidence. Continued searches may be futile, jeopardizing closure for her family.