Full Breakdown
Renewed Search for Fugitive Dezi Freeman in Victoria's Mount Buffalo National Park
2/2/2026, 1:11:39 AM
Overview of the Search Operation
Victoria Police have initiated a renewed five-day search for fugitive Desmond “Dezi” Freeman in Mount Buffalo National Park, following new intelligence linked to a gunshot heard shortly after the fatal shooting of two police officers on August 26, 2025. This operation involves over 100 police officers and volunteers, including a specialist cadaver dog from New South Wales, and is focused on an area adjacent to a previous search conducted in December 2025.
Background of the Incident
Freeman is wanted for allegedly shooting Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart while they were executing a search warrant related to historical sexual offences at his property in Porepunkah, Victoria. Thompson was nearing retirement, while de Waart-Hottart was on temporary assignment. A third officer was also injured during the incident. Following the shootings, Freeman fled into dense bushland and has not been seen since.
Search Efforts and Intelligence
The current search is based on intelligence derived from a gunshot reported around 11:45 AM on the day of the incident, approximately 45 minutes after the shootings. Police have conducted extensive searches in the area, including the use of cadaver dogs, drones, and line searches through rugged terrain. Despite these efforts, no trace of Freeman has been found, leading authorities to consider three possibilities: he may be dead, being harbored by someone, or surviving alone in the wilderness.
Detective Inspector Adam Tilley emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, “We believe information from the community will be crucial in resolving this matter.” A $1 million reward for information leading to Freeman's capture remains the largest offered in Victoria's history.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigations
The deaths of Thompson and de Waart-Hottart have had a profound impact on both the Victoria Police and the local Porepunkah community. Police have advised residents to remain vigilant and not to approach Freeman if spotted, as he is considered armed and dangerous. The investigation continues to receive public tips, with detectives having reviewed over 2,000 pieces of intelligence since the incident.
Criticism and Perspectives
Former homicide detective Charlie Bezzina noted that the renewed search likely stems from fresh intelligence, suggesting that police may be focusing on areas previously inaccessible due to environmental conditions. He expressed skepticism about Freeman's ability to survive in the bush for an extended period, indicating that the search may also be aimed at eliminating specific locations.
Conclusion and Future Actions
The search for Dezi Freeman is ongoing, with police committed to maintaining a presence in the local area and conducting targeted intelligence-based searches. Detective Inspector Tilley reiterated the determination of Victoria Police to locate Freeman, stating, “Finding Freeman, dead or alive, remains our number one priority.” The community is encouraged to report any suspicious activity or information that could assist in the investigation.
