The main suspect linked to the disappearance of Madeleine McCann has been sighted wearing a fake beard to conceal his identity. Christian Brueckner was observed sporting the disguise while strolling in the German town where he currently resides following his recent release from prison. Reportedly, he used the beard to mask his face when requesting food at a pizza establishment around 9 pm on Friday evening, claiming to be impoverished after his release from jail.
According to witnesses, despite the false beard, Brueckner was still recognizable. The synthetic material beard, different in color from his natural hair, extended to his chest. The shop worker mentioned that Brueckner asked for free food, stating he was recently released from prison and was in need of a meal. The worker noted the oddity of the situation, likening Brueckner’s appearance to that of a stray dog. Eventually, they recognized him as the suspect related to the Madeleine case.
Brueckner revisited the shop on Sunday without the false beard, prompting swift action from the staff to remove him. Earlier this year, Brueckner’s lawyer had hinted at the possibility of altering his appearance to avoid recognition, citing financial constraints that limited his options to basic disguises like fake mustaches or hats.
The suspect’s attempts to remain incognito were thwarted when women at a local shop recognized him, leading to a public outcry. Brueckner, previously residing in a rundown farmhouse in Praia da Luz during Madeleine’s disappearance, now resides in a private flat arranged by the German authorities.
Recently, Brueckner was relocated to emergency housing after declaring himself homeless, initially being accommodated in a hostel before being moved to a safer location. Following his release from Sehnde prison, he is under strict conditions, including wearing an ankle monitor for five years and facing possible re-imprisonment for breaching bail terms.
Despite an ongoing police inquiry, no charges have been filed against Brueckner regarding Madeleine’s case, which he denies involvement in. He was acquitted last October of alleged sex offenses in Portugal, pending an appeal. Brueckner is set to appear in court next month for charges of misconduct towards a prison officer, potentially leading to fines.