Two loud bangs heard near search area during dramatic manhunt for alleged double cop killer Dezi Freeman

By KYLIE STEVENS, SENIOR BREAKING NEWS REPORTER, AUSTRALIA and PAUL SHAPIRO, SENIOR NEWS REPORTER, AUSTRALIA and WAYNE FLOWER, SENIOR NEWS REPORTER, AUSTRALIA

Updated:

Accused cop killer Dezi Freeman, 56, remains on the run as the police manhunt enters its third day. 

The ‘sovereign citizen’ allegedly shot and killed Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35, at a property near the small north-east Victorian town of Porepunkah on Tuesday morning.

A third officer who was shot in the thigh remains in hospital after undergoing surgery.

Fresh details have emerged about why police were executing a search warrant as Freeman’s property before he opened fire.

This live blog has now closed.

Two minutes of silence for slain officers

The community of Wangaratta has mourned the death of two police officers slain by alleged gunman Dezi Freeman in a silent tribute on Thursday evening.

Mourners stood silent for two minutes, a minute each for Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35.

Both men were killed in the line of duty while executing a warrant at Freeman’s Porepunkah property on Tuesday morning.

Emergency responders standing at attention before an array of flashing blue and red lights.

Two long blares of horns played over the tribute, as night fell on the third day of tireless searches for the pair’s alleged killer.

Update on what we know so far

Here’s what we know as of 4pm Thursday:

  • The search for fugitive gunman Dezi Freeman (previously known as Desmond Filby) continues. There have been no confirmed sightings of the alleged cop killer since he fled into bushland near Porepunkah, about 300km northeast of Melbourne on Tuesday morning.
  • Two loud bangs were heard near the search zone about 3pm Thursday. Smoke was seen coming from a shed near the Rayner Track property where Freeman allegedly shot dead the two officers two days earlier.
  • Heavily-armed officers searched several properties and nearby bushland in Porepunkah on Thursday as the manhunt ramped up.
  • Police issued a direct message to the fugitive gunman. ‘Ring 000 and we will provide a surrender plan,’ Brett Supt Kahan said. ‘That option is open to him, absolutely.’
  • It’s been revealed that 10 officers attended the property on Tuesday execute a search warrant and to speak with Freeman about alleged sexual offences against a child under the age of 16.
  • Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has led the outpouring of tributes for Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35, who were shot dead while attempting to serve the warrant at Freeman’s property. A third officer was shot in the thigh and remains in hospital after undergoing surgery.
  • Porepunkah residents have been urged to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel as the manhunt continues.

epaselect epa12328779 Victorian police block off a road as a manhunt for a fugitive gets underway in Porepunkah, Australia, 28 August 2025. A significant search is underway for a 'heavily armed' fugitive involved in the 'cold-blooded murder' of two police officers.  EPA/SIMON DALLINGER AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND OUT

epa12328784 A entrance to Mount Buffalo National Park is closed off as the manhunt for a fugitive gets underway in Porepunkah, Australia, 28 August 2025. A significant search is underway for a 'heavily armed' fugitive involved in the 'cold-blooded murder' of two police officers.  EPA/SIMON DALLINGER AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND OUT

Heavily armed police search buildings while looking for a fugitive linked to the murder of two police officers, in Porepunkah on August 28, 2025. Police searched the Australian bush for a heavily armed 56-year-old gunman still on the run a day after allegedly killing two officers and wounding a third. (Photo by William WEST / AFP) (Photo by WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images)

epa12328783 A police helicopter flies near Mount Buffalo National Park as a manhunt for a fugitive gets underway in Porepunkah, Australia, 28 August 2025. A significant search is underway for a 'heavily armed' fugitive involved in the 'cold-blooded murder' of two police officers.  EPA/SIMON DALLINGER AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND OUT

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Alleged gunman’s ‘devastated’ nephew considers changing last name

Luke Filby, the nephew of alleged gunman Dezi ‘Filby’ Freeman, said he is considering changing his last name after Tuesday’s fatal police shooting.

Mr Filby, 38, told the Herald Sun his uncle’s disdain for the police was well-known, adding he was forced to cut ties over Freeman’s increasingly radical beliefs.

‘I just had no interest in wanting to see (Dezi), because he just scares the hell out of me,’ Mr Filby said.

‘Because of Dez’s craziness, you know the radical extremism… it just got to the point where I had to cut that firmly off because it was too toxic for me.

‘I can never understand what he had against the police. Before I was born, he didn’t even like the police. It all stems down from there really.’

He also suggested Freeman may have planned the alleged incident in advance, even setting up hiding places on his Rayner Track property.

‘He seems like the kind of person that probably would, he’s known that area and lived there for so long, it seems too planned,’ he said.

Mr Filby said he was devastated by the events of the past few days and expressed his family’s gratitude for the work of police.

‘I’m absolutely upset that two police officers lost their lives, that is absolutely devastating,’ he said.

‘If they have to shoot him, what can you do?’

Police launch night operation in Porepunkah

Police descended on Chandler Court in Porepunkah about 8.30pm on Thursday.

A voice on loud speaker advised people to ‘come out with nothing in your hands’ while more than ten police vehicles were present.

At least three men and two women were escorted from the area and several people were searched, The Australian reported.

Officers blocked off entrance to the street and a drone was seen flying overhead.

Victorian Police would not provide any details about the operation or confirm whether it was part of the ongoing search for alleged gunman Dezi Freeman.

Vic Emergency issued a ‘dangerous person’ alert about an hour later, warning people to avoid travelling through Porepunkah.

‘Victoria Police are searching for an armed and dangerous offender Desmond Freeman (Filby) in the area of Porepunkah’, the alert said.

‘Travel in the area should be restricted to essential activities only.’

People travelling to Bright, Falls Creek or Mount Hotham were advised to make use of Running Creek and Mount Beauty.

A separate alert remains in place for areas surrounding Porepunkah, advising people to ‘remain vigilant’.

Soccer club pays tribute to ‘much loved’ member and fallen cop

Wangaratta City Football Club has shared a heartfelt tribute to Neal Thompson, the 59-year-old Detective Leading Senior Constable shot dead on Tuesday morning.

Mr Thompson played with the club for several years. Its surviving members will wear armbands and join in a minute of silence ahead of this week’s fixture.

‘Wangaratta City Football Club mourns the untimely loss of one of our own,’ it wrote on social media.

‘Over 35’s player Neal Thompson was unfortunately one of the victims, and with deep sadness we honour his life and service to our community and to the Wangaratta City Football Club.’

It added: ‘The entire club sends its deepest condolences to Neal’s family, friends, team mates and colleagues, whose hearts will be forever broken.

‘As tributes flow for these officers, Wangaratta City FC will wear arm bands and observe a minute of silence prior to this week’s Semi Finals to honour both Neal and Vadim.

‘Their courage, commitment and contribution to our community’s safety will never be forgotten.’

The club remembered Mr Thompson as a ‘much loved and respected member’ of the side, adding he will be ‘terribly missed’.

7h  ·The ongoing tragic events this week in Porepunkah are profoundly upsetting. The devastating conditions that led to the loss of two Police Officers' lives and the serious injury of another are difficult to comprehend and accept. This tragedy has shaken the Wangaratta community, including the Wangaratta City Football Club.Wangaratta City Football Club mourns the untimely loss of one of our own.Over 35's player Neal Thompson was unfortunately one of the victims, and with deep sadness we honour his life and service to our community and to the Wangaratta City Football Club. Neal was a much loved and respected member of the over 35's for a number of years. He also regularly played in the then u18s or 'Thirds' as a senior player and mentor to our younger players. Neal was also a keen member of the NERDS (North East Red Devils Seniors) team who played in the Masters circuit on a regular basis. His team mates confirm that his favourite position was striker, and despite his size, he was re

Foreign press mourns death of Belgian cop

European news outlets have shared reports of the death of Senior Constable Vadim de Waart, a Belgium native, who was killed in Tuesday’s shooting near Porepunkah.

The 35-year-old moved to Australia as an adult and had been with Victoria Police for just over five years.

He was on secondment to the state’s north-east and reportedly only been in the region for a week.

Flemish tabloid Het Nieuwsblad and Antwerp-based newspapers Het Laatste Nieuws and Le Soir are among those who shared reports of the shooting and ongoing search efforts.

Mr de Waart is reportedly survived by his parents who still reside in his native Belgium and a younger brother based in Switzerland.

27/08/2025 - AUSTRALIA - Two police officers who were shot dead while on duty in a rural Australian town have been named, as a massive search continues for their alleged killer. Victoria Police identified the victims as 59-year-old Detective Neal Thompson - a local officer on the brink of retirement - and 35-year-old Senior Constable Vadim De Waart. The pair had travelled to the property in Porepunkah, north-east of Melbourne, alongside eight colleagues to execute a warrant for alleged sexual offences. Another officer was seriously injured in the shootout but is recovering after surgery. Police say the suspect - named as local man Dezi Freeman, 56 - is heavily armed and

Local cafe ‘devastated’ by death of beloved cop

A local cafe has mourned the loss of its long-time customer, Neal ‘Thommo’ Thompson, one of the two police officers allegedly shot and killed by Dezi Freeman.

Ineeta Cafe, based in Wangaratta, said the 59-year-old had frequented the business for a decade in a post to social media on Thursday.

‘I would nearly hazard to say he’d be the most visited customer ever. Sometimes coming in everyday (if not multiple times a day) of the week on his way to and from work,’ it wrote.

‘He would sit quietly for hours reading the paper or engaging in conversation with locals that knew him.’

It added: ‘I always felt safe knowing he was around, if something was happening around the town he’d be in touch. If I needed help with something he’d be there.’

The former Detective Leading Senior Constable, who was weeks away from retirement, was often joined at the cafe by his late dog Jimmy.

‘We would chat about life, hunting, fishing, Nepal, adventures, his car, rock climbing, property, finances, cooktown, his boat, jimmy, mangoes, smoked venison, work stories and lately all the things was going to do in his retirement.

‘I’m so sad he won’t get to live that life in retirement.’

Loved ones have recalled Mr Thompson’s ambitious post-retirement plans, which included walking across South America and working on his King Valley home.

Friends gathered at the Moyhu Hotel on Wednesday night to remember a life lost too soon.

10h  ·Ineeta cafe, myself and all my past and current staff are absolutely devastated by the loss of our long time customer and friend Neal (thommo) Thompson. He's been a regular to the cafe for the past 10 years. I would nearly hazard to say he'd be the most visited customer ever. Sometimes coming in everyday (if not mutiple times a day) of the week on his way to and from work. He would sit quietly for hours reading the paper or engaging in conversation with locals that knew him. Jimmy he's beloved wired haired pointer (now passed) would often come with him and we'd know two egg and bacon muffins were needed, one for neal one for jimmy. We would chat about life, hunting, fishing, Nepal, adventures, his car, rock climbing, property, finances, cooktown, his boat, jimmy, mangoes, smoked venison, work stories and lately all the things was going to do in his retirement. Im so sad he wont get to live that life in retirement.¿¿I always felt safe knowing he was around, if something was happe

Heavily armoured vehicles on the move

A convoy of vehicles have been seen leaving the blocked-off road leading to the Rayner Track property where Tuesday’s alleged shooting took place.

Two heavily armoured special operations ‘Bearcat’ vehicles, multiple ambulances and police vehicles were among those to depart the search zone.

It may suggest searches around the property are winding down for the day as inclement weather and night descends over the area.

The road block remains in place, however, as the third night of searches approaches.

It comes more than two hours since two loud bangs were heard near the search zone about 3pm.

‘Loud bangs’ heard near search site

Two loud bangs were heard near the scene of the ongoing police manhunt for alleged cop killer Dezi Freeman in Porepunkah.

The bangs were heard near the search zone about 3pm Thursday.

Smoke was seen coming from a shed near the Rayner Track property where Freeman allegedly shot dead two police officers and wounded another on Tuesday.

A police helicopter is circling the bushland where the smoke was spotted.

Our reporter at the scene Wayne Flower also says that police have blocked the road.

Victoria Police has sent new text messages to people in the Porepunkah area, warning them to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel.

‘Specialist police continue to search for Desmond Freeman (Filby) who is armed and dangerous. If you see Desmond, call 000 immediately but do not approach him,’ the text read.

White smoke from some explosions are seen during a search for a fugitive linked to the murder of two police officers, in Porepunkah on August 28, 2025. Police searched the Australian bush for a heavily armed 56-year-old gunman still on the run a day after allegedly killing two officers and wounding a third. (Photo by William WEST / AFP) (Photo by WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images)

A police helicopter flies over a property during the search for a fugitive linked to the murder of two police officers, in Porepunkah on August 28, 2025. Police searched the Australian bush for a heavily armed 56-year-old gunman still on the run a day after allegedly killing two officers and wounding a third. (Photo by William WEST / AFP) (Photo by WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images)

Prime Minister leads tributes to the fallen cops

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has led tributes in federal parliament to the two Victoria Police officers killed in the line of duty on Tuesday.

Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35, were shot dead by alleged gunman Dezi Freeman while executing a search warrant at his Porepunkah property.

Albanese described the slain officers as ‘heroes’ in parliament on Thursday.

He also acknowledged the impact on the tight-knit community reeling from the tragedy as the manhunt for Freeman continues.

‘As a Parliament, as a country, we offer our deepest condolence to all whose worlds have been shattered by this horrific shooting,’ the PM told parliament.

‘Our heart goes out to everyone whose heart is breaking.

‘Right now, Victoria Police are still engaged in their search for the killer at the centre of these terrible events. This difficult and dangerous task is being carried out in very challenging conditions.

‘I understand in these raw early days, the close-knit community of Porepunkah is grappling with the sense of horror and also disbelief.

‘But right now, the most important thing for everyone in the area to do is to listen to the police, follow official advice, and keep yourselves safe.’

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said the community would ‘never take for granted the courage’ the late officers had shown.

‘These men stood up, these men put on the uniform, these men, like all our police, protected our community, our police run towards danger, they confront the violent, they protect children, they keep us safe,’ she said.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during Question Time in the House of Representatives at Parliament House in Canberra, Wednesday, August 27, 2025. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas) NO ARCHIVING 15038211  15038231

In an undated supplied image obtained on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, in his younger days, poses for a picture in his uniform, VIC, Australia. The police officers killed in a shooting at a property in Victoria's high country have been remembered as heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice. (PR HANDOUT/Supplied by CWG) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY, AAP PROVIDES ACCESS TO THIS HANDOUT IMAGE TO BE USED SOLELY FOR THE PURPOSE FOR WHICH THE IMAGE WAS PROVIDED - FOR REPORTING ON THE EVENTS OR FACTS DEPICTED IN THE IMAGE.

It is with incredible sadness that Victoria Police names the two officers who were tragically killed in the line of duty in Porepunkah yesterday: Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart.¿

Police plea to Dezi Freeman as manhunt continues

Police have issued a direct message to Dezi Freeman as the ongoing manhunt for alleged cop killer continues.

Deputy Commissioner Regional Operations Russell Barrett and Superintendent Brett Kahan confirmed several properties in Porepunkah were searched on Thursday morning in the hunt for Freeman, who’s now been on the run for 48 hours.

Police were tight-lipped on specific details of the operation and are no closer to finding Freeman with no confirmed sightings.

They vowed to continue the search until he’s found, despite the challenging terrain and bad weather.

‘That’s our purpose, and we will not rest until it occurs,’ Deputy Commissioner Barrett said.

‘As a long-serving police member, this is one of the most difficult matters that I’ve dealt with and one of the most difficult matters in Victoria Police’s history.’

He wouldn’t comment on whether police believe if Freeman is still alive.

But the Deputy did confirm that Freeman’s wife is cooperating with police and hopes the manhunt will end safely.

‘I hope for the arrest of Desi Freeman and bring him to justice for our members. That’s what I hope,’ Deputy Commissioner Barrett said.

Police also had a direct message for Freeman in case he was watching.

‘Ring 000 and we will provide a surrender plan,’ Supt Kahan said.

‘That option is open to him, absolutely.’

DAY RATE Day 3 Floral tributes pour in for the slain officers killed by fugitive gunman Dezi Freeman as police provide an update on the manhunt.EXCLUSIVE28 August 2025©MEDIA-MODE.COM

DAY RATE Day 3 Floral tributes pour in for the slain officers killed by fugitive gunman Dezi Freeman as police provide an update on the manhunt.EXCLUSIVE28 August 2025©MEDIA-MODE.COM

DAYRATE Day 3 Members of the Specials Operations Group prepare to enter bushland in day three of the hunt for gunman Dezi Freeman who killed two officers in cold bloodEXCLUSIVE28 August 2025©MEDIA-MODE.COM

Armed police raid a property near the compound of fugitive Dezi Freeman.EXCLUSIVE28 August 2025©MEDIA-MODE.COM

Armed cops descend on property

Heavily armed police have descended on a Mount Buffalo Road property during the manhunt for alleged cop killer Dezi Freeman.

Officers from the Critical Incident Response Team surrounded the rural property with their guns drawn while scouring nearby bushland.

Accompanied by police dogs, officers also inspected a caravan and shed on the property.

Concerned neighbours were also seen speaking to police at the scene.

A roadblock near Rayner Track, the scene of Tuesday’s deadly shooting has been reinstated.

Deputy Commissioner Regional Operations Russell Barrett and Superintendent Brett Kahan are due to give an update on the police operation at 2pm.

Armed police raid a property near the compound of fugitive Dezi Freeman.EXCLUSIVE28 August 2025©MEDIA-MODE.COM

Armed police raid a property near the compound of fugitive Dezi Freeman.EXCLUSIVE28 August 2025©MEDIA-MODE.COM

Armed police raid a property near the compound of fugitive Dezi Freeman.EXCLUSIVE28 August 2025©MEDIA-MODE.COM

Armed police raid a property near the compound of fugitive Dezi Freeman.EXCLUSIVE28 August 2025©MEDIA-MODE.COM

Disgraceful conspiracy theory being pushed by sovereign citizens

Sovereign citizens have claimed that the fatal shooting of two police officers was staged.

Dezi Freeman, 56, fled into bushland after being suspected of gunning down the two officers in cold blood at a property in Porepunkah.

Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35, were shot dead while attempting to serve a search warrant.

As the police manhunt for Freeman continues, a shocking conspiracy theory is circulating among sovereign citizens.

A friend of Freeman told Daily Mail the ‘media has done enough vilification’ of the 56-year-old and should ‘not be trusted at all’.

One sovereign citizen who describes himself as a ‘full-time farm hand part-time citizen journalist’ disgracefully suggested the fatal shooting of two police officers was ‘suspicious’.

More details in the link below.

Chilling theory emerges about Dezi Freeman

Locals have speculated that ‘sovereign citizen’ Dezi Freeman could take his own life in remote bushland in an act of ‘sweet revenge’ against police.

The extensive manhunt continues for the alleged gunman, 48 hours after Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35, were shot dead as officers attempted to serve a search warrant on Freeman at his property in Porepunkah, about 300km north-east of Melbourne on Tuesday morning.

Residents in the small township at the base of Mount Buffalo remain on edge as the extensive search for Freeman enters its third day.

One local speculated that if Freeman is dead, he would take revenge in knowing that police will waste extensive time and resources searching for his body.

‘If he’s (dead) in some hidey-hole, they won’t find him for months. That would be his ultimate, sweet revenge,’ he told NCA NewsWire.

‘I don’t take that personally. It’s s***ty, yeah … it’s collateral damage.

‘Life will go on. If we don’t get closure in the coming days, I guess life will return to normal.’

Dezi Freeman is seen in a neighbour wars story on A Current Affair in 2018 / gunman accused of shooting dead two cops and wounding a third at a remote shack in Victoria's High Country, Melbourne Australia

DAYRATE Day 3 Members of the Specials Operations Group prepare to enter bushland in day three of the hunt for gunman Dezi Freeman who killed two officers in cold bloodEXCLUSIVE28 August 2025©MEDIA-MODE.COM

DAYRATE Day 3 Members of the Specials Operations Group prepare to enter bushland in day three of the hunt for gunman Dezi Freeman who killed two officers in cold bloodEXCLUSIVE28 August 2025©MEDIA-MODE.COM

Mount Buffalo National Park remains closed

Mount Buffalo National Park remains closed to the public as the search for alleged cop killer Dezi Freeman continues.

The fatal shootings occurred at a farm property near the foot of Mount Buffalo on Tuesday, where the alleged gunman fled into surrounding bushland and has not been seen since.

‘Mount Buffalo National Park is closed until further notice due to the ongoing Victoria Police incident at Porepunkah,’ a Parks Victoria statement read.

‘If you had plans to visit Mount Buffalo National Park, please find an alternative.

‘The thoughts of everyone at Parks Victoria are with the families of the officers and their colleagues.’

The popular tourist attraction will reopen ‘once the incident is resolved.’

‘We ask all visitors planning to visit the park to follow Victoria Police advice and avoid the area,’ the statement added.

Lookout on top of the granite cliffs of Mount Buffalo - Bright, Victoria, Australia; Shutterstock ID 773306833; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

The Cathedral rock formation, Mt. Buffalo National Park, Victoria, Australia; Shutterstock ID 229523101; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

Locals urged to stay home

Victoria Police sent out new text messages to people in the Porepunkah area on Thursday morning as the extensive manhunt for alleged cop killer Dezi Freeman enters its third day.

‘Specialist police continue to search for Desmond Freeman (Filby), who is armed and dangerous,’ the text read.

‘Multiple police units remain in the general area of Porepunkah. 

‘If you see Desmond, call 000 immediately and do not approach him.

‘Restrict non-essential travel and remain indoors with buildings and vehicles locked where possible. Roadblocks may be in place.’

The township of Porepunkah remains a ghost town, despite the local primary school reopening for the first time since the deadly shooting.

Heavily armed police gather at a police staging point during the search for a fugitive linked to the murder of two police officers, in Porepunkah on August 28, 2025. Police searched the Australian bush for a heavily armed 56-year-old gunman still on the run a day after allegedly killing two officers and wounding a third. (Photo by William WEST / AFP) (Photo by WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images)

DAYRATE Day 3 Police patrol the local primary school at Porepunkah after students return to the classroom for the first time since gunman Dezi Freeman killed two police officers in cold blood.EXCLUSIVE28 August 2025©MEDIA-MODE.COM

epa12328423 Flower tributes left at Myrtleford Police Station in Myrtleford, Australia, 28 August 2025. A significant search is underway for a 'heavily armed' fugitive involved in the 'cold-blooded murder' of two police officers.  EPA/SIMON DALLINGER AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND OUT

New details emerge about search warrant

Fresh details have emerged about why police attended Dezi Freeman’s property in Porepunkah on Tuesday morning before he allegedly opened fire and killed two officers.

Sources have revealed that police had visited the property to execute a search warrant and speak to the father-of-three about alleged sexual offences against a child under the age of 16.

It’s understood the alleged offending had occurred in the past two years.

Ten officers converged on the property, including members of the Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team.

Concerns about Freeman’s known possession of guns also prompted the heavy police presence.

Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35, were shot dead while officers attempted to serve the search warrant.

A third officer was wounded in the thigh. He remains in hospital after undergoing surgery.

Freeman fled into bushland afterwards and remains on the run.

Victorian Police armed tactical response officers are seen back at the property believed to be where 2 police officers were killed in Porepunkah in Victoria, Wednesday, August 27, 2025. A significant search is underway for a

DAYRATE Day 3 Police patrol the local primary school at Porepunkah after students return to the classroom for the first time since gunman Dezi Freeman killed two police officers in cold blood.EXCLUSIVE28 August 2025©MEDIA-MODE.COM

Police give search update

Police have confirmed that there have been no sightings of Dezi Freeman since Tuesday as the extensive manhunt for the alleged gunman continues.

‘To give you an idea of the resources that we’ve deployed to the area, we’ve got Homicide Squad, Armed Crime Squad, Fugitive Squad, Special Operations Group, Critical Incident Response Team – they all remain in the Porepunkah area,’ Senior Constable Paul Hogan told ABC Radio on Thursday.

Porepunkah residents are urged to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel as the search continues.

‘We’re sympathetic to the Porepunkah people,’ Constable Hogan said.

‘We know it’s not ideal for them that they need to stay indoors and be conscious of what’s around them.

‘But remember, this man is believed to be armed with firearms and we urge people not to approach him.

‘If anyone sights this man or someone they believe to be this man, we urge them do not approach him – call triple-0 immediately.’

Melbourne lights up for the boys in blue

Landmarks and monuments lit up in blue on Wednesday night in honour of the two Victoria Police officers killed in the line of duty.

Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35, were shot dead by suspected gunman Dezi Freeman at a property in Porepunkah on Tuesday.

A third officer who was shot in the thigh remains in hospital after undergoing surgery.

Melbourne CBD landmarks that paid tribute included Flinders Street Station, Melbourne Town Hall, National Gallery of Victoria, State Paliament House and Crown Melbourne.

In Canberra, Australian Federal Police Commissioner Reece Kershaw laid a wreath at the National Police Memorial, which also lit up in blue.

15041033 Accused cop killer Dezi Freeman still on the run amid warning he could armed with 'multiple powerful guns

Tonight, Crown Melbourne is lit up blue as a mark of respect and solidarity for the two Victorian police officers who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty at Porepunkah yesterday.Our thoughts are with the families, friends and loved ones of these brave individuals, as well as the broader community, during this difficult time.

15041033 Accused cop killer Dezi Freeman still on the run amid warning he could armed with 'multiple powerful guns'

Australian Federal Police1h  ·AFP Commissioner Reece P Kershaw APM has laid a wreath at the National Police Memorial in Canberra to pay tribute to the two Victoria Police officers who died in the line of duty yesterday.The National Carillon has been lit up in blue in honour of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart.Our thoughts remain with their families, friends and colleagues.

Roadblocks removed

Several roadblocks have been removed in Porepunkah as the manhunt for alleged police killer Dezi Freeman enters its third day.

Police and authorities will be based at nearby Feathertop Winery, where a makeshift command station was set up earlier in the week.

The search continues to be hampered by bad weather conditions.

Up to 27mm of rain and a top of 9C are forecast for the region on Thursday.

Police have confirmed that severe weather conditions have complicated travel in the area.

Similar conditions are forecast for Friday.

The local primary school will re-open on Thursday after it went into lockdown following the shooting.

Council facilities in the nearby towns of Myrtleford and Mount Beauty have also reopened.

However, council facilities in Bright and Porepunkah remain closed until further notice.

‘At this stage, facilities and public waste areas in Bright and Porepunkah are not being serviced, and this will be reviewed over the next 24 hours,’ Alpine Shire Council posted.

ASSIGNMENT: AUGUST 27, 2025: Porepunkah, Victoria. Police at the scene of a double homicide in Porepunkah. They are currently searching for Desmond Filby (aka Dezi Freeman). (Photo by Media-Mode/Daily Mail)

Police divert traffic at a road block to a property as the search intensifies for a fugitive linked to the murder of two police officers in Porepunkah on August 27, 2025. Police searched the Australian bush on August 27, for a heavily armed 56-year-old gunman still on the run a day after allegedly killing two officers and wounding a third. (Photo by William WEST / AFP) (Photo by WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images)

A police vehicle parks outside a property as the search intensifies for a fugitive linked to the murder of two police officers in Porepunkah on August 27, 2025. Police searched the Australian bush on August 27, for a heavily armed 56-year-old gunman still on the run a day after allegedly killing two officers and wounding a third. (Photo by William WEST / AFP) (Photo by WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images)

Who were the cops allegedly killed by Dezi Freeman?

Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35, have been named as the officers killed by suspected gunman Dezi Freeman in Porepunkah on Tuesday.

Detective Thompson, from Wangaratta CIU, was just weeks from retirement.

A keen outdoorsman, he had previously dealt with Freeman and was chosen to serve the warrant due to their rapport. He was reportedly the first to knock on the door and was allegedly ambushed.

‘Neal joined Victoria Police in September 1987,’ police said. ‘

He worked in general duties, major fraud, and state crime squads before joining Wangaratta CIU in 2007. He loved nature and had found new purpose with his partner Lisa, building a home and planning for retirement.’

Senior Constable De Waart, originally from Belgium, joined Victoria Police in 2018 and was on secondment in northeast Victoria. Fluent in four languages, he had interests in travel, public speaking, and computer graphics.

‘Vadim started at the Academy in December 2018, then worked at St Kilda before joining PORT in 2023,’ police said.

‘He was a keen traveller, gin collector, and proud homeowner. He is survived by his parents in Belgium, brother in Switzerland, and extended family in Melbourne.’

Senior Constable Vadim de Waart (top) and Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson (bottom).

It is with incredible sadness that Victoria Police names the two officers who were tragically killed in the line of duty in Porepunkah yesterday: Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart.¿

It is with incredible sadness that Victoria Police names the two officers who were tragically killed in the line of duty in Porepunkah yesterday: Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart.¿

Alleged cop killer’s terrifying death threats to his neighbours

The neighbour of suspected cop killer Dezi Freeman has broken his silence, revealing chilling threats and years of torment.

Zar Saccutelli says Freeman, a self-declared sovereign citizen, once threatened to kill his teenage son and regularly called police to harass neighbours – despite later branding officers ‘Gestapo Nazi terrorist thugs’.

What we know so far

  • The search for fugitive gunman Dezi Freeman (also known a Desmond Filby) has entered its third day. Freeman is accused of murdering two Victoria Police officers in cold blood at a property in Porepunkah, about 300km northeast of Melbourne on Tuesday morning.
  • Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35, were shot dead while attempting to serve a search warrant to Freeman at his property. A third officer was shot in the thigh and remains in hospital after undergoing surgery.
  • A heavy police presence remains in Porepunkah, a town of about 1,000 residents in Victoria’s alpine region. Locals reported hearing loud bangs resembling gunfire on Wednesday as police returned to the property where the shootings occurred.
  • Freeman fled into bushland immediately after the attack. He was last seen wearing dark green tracksuit pants, a dark green rain jacket, brown Blundstone boots and reading glasses. Police say he is believed to be a sovereign citizen, part of a fringe anti-government movement that rejects the rule of law.
  • Bad weather and Freeman’s bush survival skills are hampering the search. Hundreds of officers are combing the rugged landscape on foot and by air.
  • There have been no sightings of Freeman since he fled into the bush on Tuesday morning.
  • On Tuesday night, Freeman’s partner and children presented themselves at a police station and spoke with officers.
  • Up to 27mm of rain is predicted to fall today which may hamper the search.Temperatures won’t rise above 9C.
  • Police have warned the public to not approach Freeman as he may be armed with mulitple firearms.
  • It’s since been revealed police were at the property on Tuesday to speak to Freeman about alleged sexual offences against a child under the age of 16.

A supplied composite image generated on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, shows (Left) Dezi Freeman, also known as Desmond Filby, poses for a photo, VIC, Australia (PR HANDOUT/Supplied by Victoria Police). And (Right) The property believed to be where two Victorian police officers were murdered in Porepunkah in Victoria, Wednesday, August 27, 2025. (AAP Image/Simon Dallinger). The search for a fugitive accused of gunning down two police officers continues as locals warn the experienced bushman can survive in treacherous conditions. NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY, AAP PROVIDES ACCESS TO THIS HANDOUT IMAGE TO BE USED SOLELY FOR THE PURPOSE FOR WHICH THE IMAGE WAS PROVIDED - FOR REPORTING ON THE EVENTS OR FACTS DEPICTED IN THE IMAGE.

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