Manhunt Enters Fourth Day for Alleged Police Killer Dezi freeman in Victorian Alps
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The intensive search for Dezi Freeman, accused of fatally shooting two Victoria Police officers, continues for a fourth day amidst increasingly challenging weather conditions in the state’s alpine region. The 56-year-old remains at large after an alleged shooting on Tuesday near Porepunkah, prompting a massive manhunt involving hundreds of officers, aerial support, and specialist teams.
The two officers – First Constable Mark dubois and Senior Constable Kevin King – were part of a team executing a warrant at Freeman’s property on Rayner track, related to ancient sex offences. The incident occured around 10:30 am, after which police believe Freeman fled on foot into the dense bushland surrounding his property.
An aerial image of Freeman’s property, captured in November 2024, reveals the remote and isolated location where the initial confrontation took place. (Supplied: Nearmap)
Police Plea for Surrender Amidst Escalating Search
On Thursday, authorities revealed they were still operating under the assumption that freeman remained in the area. A senior official stated during a press conference that Freeman was heavily armed with multiple weapons when last seen, and the public is strongly advised not to approach him if spotted.
In a direct appeal to the fugitive, Superintendent Brett Kahan urged Freeman to surrender.”If Dezi Freeman is watching this, ring triple-0,” he said. “We will support a surrender plan, that option is open to him.” While details of a potential surrender plan were not disclosed, authorities expressed hope for a safe resolution to the crisis.
Warnings Issued to Collaborators and Alpine Travelers
Police also issued a stern warning to anyone considering aiding Freeman. Deputy Commissioner of Regional Operations Russell Barrett emphasized the legal consequences of harboring or supporting the fugitive, stating, “They are committing a criminal offense, and we will prosecute them.”
Roads leading to Mt Buffalo National Park remain closed as the search intensifies. Authorities are also urging anyone planning a ski trip in the Victorian Alps to reconsider, given the potential danger posed by Freeman’s presence.
Worsening Weather Complicates Manhunt
The search area is facing increasingly severe weather conditions, further complicating the efforts to locate Freeman. The terrain is described as rugged, heavily forested, and mountainous, dotted with caves and mineshafts that present significant challenges to search teams. “It’s really arduous terrain, it’s complex terrain, it’s not something even that we with our specialist resources can move through quickly,” Superintendent Kahan explained.
A severe weather warning has been issued,forecasting blizzards for parts of the eastern ranges above 1400m. Damaging winds and 15-35mm of rain are also expected in Porepunkah on Friday. The Bureau of Meteorology’s Angus Hines predicted “one of the most widespread and significant amounts of snow that we’ve seen through the season so far,” with potential accumulations of 30-40cm on the higher peaks.
State Government Pledges Full Support
Premier jacinta Allan affirmed the state government’s commitment to providing Victoria Police with all necessary resources for provided that required. “Every support that Victoria Police need, we will provide,” she stated.
Deputy Commissioner barrett acknowledged the strain on police resources, balancing the extensive manhunt with regular duties, including preparations for planned protests and counter-protests in Melbourne on Sunday. He urged individuals considering attending rallies across Victoria to reassess their reasons for doing so.
Residents of porepunkah have reported hearing loud bangs in the distance over the past two days, while communities in surrounding areas, including Wangaratta and Beechworth, have received repeated text message alerts urging vigilance. Regular warnings have been texted to residents near Porepunkah. (Supplied)
The search for Dezi Freeman continues, with authorities determined to bring him into custody and ensure the safety of the community.
