The question is whether his death is merely a private tragedy or a sign of espionage.

In south London, however, Stephen's death has been transformed from private tragedy to public cause celebre.

I have no desire to speak of this private human tragedy, much less remember it, but I see that you will never believe me otherwise.

The chief was still leaning inside the Lincoln, looking through more paperwork, perhaps grateful for the distraction from her own private tragedies.

But given the inherent melodrama of the Swansons' private tragedy, it could have offered even more.

Your father is dead, which is your private tragedy.

And thus, millions watch every day as private tragedy becomes a spectacle.

Media interest in the case declined quickly, and Hannah's very public death soon became what, perhaps, it really had been all along-a private tragedy.

The faces bending over him were curious, detached from his private tragedy.

Fleck's estranged wife turned their private tragedy into a public slanging match.