Manhunt for Cop Killer Dezi Freeman Continues
Table of Contents
- New five‑day search underway as investigators keep three scenarios open
- What police are doing now
- Who is involved in the search
- Why this area is being searched
- Timeline and case background
- What investigators are considering
- Public appeal and the reward
- Why this matters to the community
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
New five‑day search underway as investigators keep three scenarios open
The manhunt for cop killer Dezi Freeman has entered another phase with a new five‑day search operation in remote Mount Buffalo country. Manhunt for Cop Killer Dezi Freeman continues to be the largest search Victoria has seen, involving specialist police units, volunteer search teams and cadaver dogs as authorities follow up fresh information.
What police are doing now
Search teams began early this morning and will work through the coming five days. The current operation focuses on 1.3 square kilometres of rugged terrain adjoining a systematic search conducted in December.
Investigators say the area is steep, heavily treed and physically demanding for personnel. In December officers covered about 0.886 square kilometres — roughly 35 MCG‑sized ovals — and this week’s area equates to roughly 52 MCG ovals.
Who is involved in the search
Multiple specialist units are deployed: Eastern Region Search and Rescue, Victoria Police dog squads, drone teams, the Special Operations Group and the Victoria Police Air Wing. Volunteers from Bush Search and Rescue (BESAR) and two cadaver dog handlers from the New South Wales canine unit have also joined the effort.
Parks Victoria has provided access and logistical support to allow safe entry into the remote search locations. Police stress the operation is a coordinated effort with detectives from the Summit Task Force leading the ground inquiries.
Why this area is being searched
The search zones were identified after forensic firearms testing and analysis following information received from the public. Detectives tested sites at Rainier Track and Barrett’s Lane and used that analysis to narrow likely locations.
A member of the public reported hearing a gunshot around 12:29pm on 26 August near the vicinity of the Buckland River, which helped shape follow‑up searches.
Timeline and case background
On 26 August, shortly after 10:30am, investigators attending a matter at Dezi Freeman’s property were confronted. Two officers — Detective Leading Senior Constable Neil Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim Devart Hotheart — were fatally shot and a third officer was seriously injured.
Freeman was last seen leaving the scene about 10:45am wearing brown blundstone‑style boots, grey tracksuit pants, a brown T‑shirt, a green jacket and a light green lanyard, and he was believed to be carrying firearms when he left the property.
What investigators are considering
Police say they are patient and methodical and currently keeping an open mind. They are exploring three main scenarios: that Freeman is dead in the Mount Buffalo area (through self‑harm or misadventure), that he is being harboured by others, or that he has left the area and remains at large and unassisted.
Detectives have examined more than 2,000 pieces of information, including public tips, and say each lead has been thoroughly investigated.
Public appeal and the reward
Authorities urge anyone who sees Freeman to call Triple Zero immediately. A $1 million reward has been offered for information that leads to his arrest or location; the reward is not dependent on conviction.
People with information — including anyone who heard a gunshot around 12:29pm on 26 August — are asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 33 000 or via the Crime Stoppers website. Police reiterate the investigation can be resolved only with public assistance.
Why this matters to the community
This is described by police as the largest manhunt Victoria has seen and one of the biggest tactical operations in Australia. Beyond the immediate goal of locating Freeman, investigators say they want answers for the families, colleagues and the local community affected by the tragedy.
Police continue to thank local residents and members of the public who have come forward with information and encourage anyone with relevant details to speak up.
Key takeaways
- New five‑day search targeting 1.3 sq km of rugged terrain near Buckland River.
- Specialist units, volunteers and interstate cadaver dogs are assisting.
- Three scenarios remain under consideration: deceased, harboured, or at large unassisted.
- $1 million reward for information leading to arrest or location; contact Crime Stoppers.
FAQs
How long will the current search run?
The search commenced in the early hours and is scheduled to run for five days, concluding on Friday of this week.
Who is leading the investigation?
The Summit Task Force, supported by the Homicide Squad and specialist units from Crime Command, Intel Support Command, the Special Operations Group, and regional search teams, is leading the inquiry.
What should I do if I see Dezi Freeman?
If you see Freeman, call Triple Zero immediately. If you have information but do not see him, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 33 000 or submit a tip via the Crime Stoppers website. Do not approach him.
What is the reward and how does it work?
Police have offered a $1 million reward for information that leads to Freeman’s arrest or his location. The reward is not tied to conviction; it is for actionable information that results in locating or apprehending him.
Has anything been ruled out?
No single outcome has been ruled out. Investigators are methodically testing multiple possibilities and have examined thousands of leads to date.
The information in this article has been adapted from mainstream news sources and video reports published on official channels. Watch the full video here 'The largest manhunt that we have seen in Victoria': Hunt for cop killer continues | 7NEWS
