UPDATE: The manhunt for accused fugitive killer Dezi Freeman, also known as Desmond Filby, is intensifying as authorities enter the fourth day of an urgent search. The fugitive is wanted for allegedly shooting two police officers dead during an operation at a property in Porepunkah, Victoria, which is located 300 km northeast of Melbourne.
Freeman is suspected of murdering Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, aged 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, aged 35. Both officers were part of a team executing a search warrant related to alleged child sex offenses. Tragically, another officer wounded in the incident is recovering after surgery.
With weather conditions expected to worsen, police are deploying every available resource to locate Freeman, who fled into dense bushland. Senior meteorologist Angus Hines warned of approaching storms, with hail and snowfall predicted at elevations above 600 meters.
Deputy Commissioner of Regional Operations Russell Barrett emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We will not rest until Freeman is apprehended.” Police have been systematically searching mines, caves, and dugouts in the area, as well as communicating with Freeman’s wife in hopes of gathering intelligence.
The community has been put on high alert, with authorities urging anyone who may be assisting Freeman to reconsider their actions. Superintendent Brett Kahan stated, “We will support a surrender plan. That option is absolutely open to him.”
The fallen officers were given a solemn guard of honor as their bodies were transported to the Melbourne Coroners Court on Wednesday night. The loss has deeply impacted the community and the police force, with Barrett noting that Thompson was just days away from retirement, and De Waart had a promising career ahead.
Local council services will continue, though the waste tip remains closed until further notice, according to the Alpine Shire Council. Freeman, who possesses bush survival skills, was last seen wearing dark green tracksuit pants, a dark green rain jacket, brown Blundstone boots, and reading glasses.
As the search continues, the community is reminded to stay vigilant and report any sightings or information to authorities immediately. This ongoing manhunt highlights the immediate risks faced by law enforcement and the need for public cooperation in ensuring safety.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
