Manhunt Continues for Alleged Gunman Who Killed 2 Police Officers in North-East Victoria

Strategic Insights -

Two police officers, a 59-year-old detective and a 35-year-old senior constable, were killed in a rural shooting in north-east Victoria on Tuesday. The officers were attempting to execute a search warrant at a property shared by Dezi Bird Freeman and his family when they were allegedly shot by Mr. Freeman. The search for Mr. Freeman, who is believed to be 59 years old, remains under way, with a large area around the property cordoned off by police. Another officer was injured in the shooting and has undergone surgery.

Key Takeaways:

  • Two police officers, a 59-year-old detective and a 35-year-old senior constable, were killed in the shooting.
  • The officers were attempting to execute a search warrant at a property shared by Dezi Bird Freeman and his family.
  • Dezi Bird Freeman, who is alleged to have killed the two police officers, has disappeared into nearby bushland.
  • A massive search remains under way for Mr. Freeman, with Victoria Police deploying "every specialist resource" to find him.
  • The injured detective has undergone surgery and is receiving treatment.
  • The community of Porepunkah, where the shooting took place, has been urged to stay indoors as the hunt for Mr. Freeman continues.
  • Local services and a primary school have been closed due to the ongoing search and police operations.
  • Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan have offered their condolences to the police officers and their families.

Statistics:

  • 2 police officers were killed in the shooting.
  • 1 police officer was injured in the shooting and has undergone surgery.
  • The search area is a large area around the property, which has been cordoned off by police.
  • 10 police officers attempted to execute the search warrant.
  • 1000 people live in the town of Porepunkah.
  • Police have urged the local community to stay indoors.

Sources:

  • Australian Broadcasting Corporation (no date)
  • Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (no date)
  • Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan (no date)