Kate McCann: From anguished parent, to grieving mother, to suspect

If Kate McCann were seeking some consolation this week, as she began preparing to return home from the Portuguese resort that will define the rest of her life, then perhaps it was the belief that no catastrophe could ever come close to what she has experienced in the place where her family arrived for a week's peace and sunshine, 138 days ago. But, in a single, breathtaking moment yesterday, the world learnt there were to be no such certainties for the mother of Madeleine McCann. Shortly before 11am, Mrs McCann's spokeswoman, Justine McGuinness, revealed that the 39-year-old GP was being made an arguida ? official suspect ? in the case. And then she uttered the six short words which will be inconceivable to some who have followed this case and a confirmation of long-held suspicions to others. "Kate fears she will be charged," Ms McGuinness said.