A large-scale search is continuing in Victoria’s north-east after two police officers were fatally shot during an operation at a rural property in Porepunkah on Tuesday morning.
Authorities confirmed a 59-year-old detective and a 35-year-old senior constable lost their lives in the confrontation, while another detective remains in hospital after undergoing surgery for serious gunshot injuries.
The suspect, identified as local resident Dezi Freeman, is believed to have fled into nearby bushland following the deadly encounter. Police say he was heavily armed at the time.
What Happened
According to Victoria Police, a group of 10 officers arrived at a property on Rayner Track shortly after 10:30am to execute a search warrant. Chief Commissioner Mike Bush said the officers were confronted by the gunman.
“They were murdered in cold blood,” he said, describing the incident as one of the darkest days for the force.
While the suspect managed to escape, police have confirmed that his partner and children later attended a station voluntarily and are not believed to have been with him after the shooting.
Shockwaves Across the State
The attack has sent shock and grief through Victoria’s policing community and beyond. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the killings as “horrific,” adding:
“The men and women who wear a uniform take a risk every day. This incident is devastating for their families and for the broader police family.”
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan called the deaths “heartbreaking,” noting the daily courage required of officers in the line of duty.
Wayne Gatt, CEO of the Police Association Victoria, said the two officers had “paid the ultimate price for protecting the community,” adding that stations across the state had fallen silent in their honour.
Community on Alert
Residents of Porepunkah, a small town about 300 kilometres from Melbourne, received text alerts on Tuesday warning them to remain indoors due to the presence of an “armed and dangerous” individual in the area.
Hundreds of police, including specialist units, have since been deployed in the search effort. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact police or Crime Stoppers.
Chief Commissioner Bush stressed that every available resource is being dedicated to capturing the fugitive:
“He is a very dangerous person and he must be caught. We are receiving a significant amount of information, and we ask the public to continue assisting us.”
A Tragic Reminder of Risk
The killings have highlighted the dangers faced by frontline officers in Victoria and across Australia. For many within the force, the incident is a sobering reminder of the risks that come with policing.
As Mr Gatt reflected: “Our members will go back to their jobs tomorrow, but at home they will carry the grief of losing two colleagues. They will hold their loved ones closer tonight—something these two brave officers can no longer do.”
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