A new Channel 4 documentary, Madeleine McCann: The Unseen Evidence, has revealed harrowing, never-before-seen material connected to the disappearance of three-year-old Madeleine McCann. The programme follows an investigation by The Sun, which uncovered digital files believed to belong to the main suspect, Christian Brueckner.
Brueckner, a convicted sex offender, is currently imprisoned for a 2005 rape in Praia da Luz—the same resort where Madeleine vanished in 2007. Though acquitted of other allegations last year, he could be released in late 2025 unless charged in connection with this case. He maintains his innocence.
The documentary shows images found on hard drives and USBs from Brueckner’s former property, including a disturbing collection of children’s swimsuits, masks, weapons, and written stories detailing violent abduction fantasies. One such story describes kidnapping a mother and daughter using ether.
German prosecutors believe Brueckner is responsible for Madeleine’s death, although he has not been officially charged due to insufficient forensic evidence.
The McCanns recently marked 18 years since their daughter disappeared, thanking the public for continued support and reaffirming their hope for answers.