New Search Launched in Madeleine McCann Case

Eighteen years after Madeleine McCann vanished from a Portuguese resort, a renewed search is underway. Portuguese police, acting on a request from German authorities made in April, are currently scouring an area between Praia da Luz and the former home of Christian Brueckner, the only suspect in the case. "The searches, which have just begun today, will focus on 21 properties, specifically outbuildings, wells, and water tanks," reported Chloe Keedy of ITV News. Brueckner, currently imprisoned in Germany for the rape of an elderly woman, has consistently maintained his innocence. This is not the first time German police have investigated the area; two years ago they conducted searches near a reservoir frequented by Brueckner around the time of Madeleine's disappearance. The renewed search underscores the determination of Madeleine's parents, who last month reiterated their unwavering commitment to finding their daughter on the eve of her 22nd birthday.