In a tragic incident, two Victoria Police officers, Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35, were fatally shot while executing a search warrant at a property in Porepunkah, northeast Victoria, on Tuesday morning.
The alleged gunman, Dezi Freeman, 56, fled the scene with an arsenal of weapons and remains at large.
IBUTES PAID TO FALLEN OFFICERS
Neal Thompson, a veteran detective with over three decades of service, was just days away from retirement.
He was known for his adventurous spirit and love of the outdoors.
Victoria Police described him as an “adventurer” who enjoyed getting out in nature, and his friends and colleagues regularly joined him on these trips.
Vadim De Waart, a senior constable, was a skilled linguist and avid traveller who had a passion for scuba diving and motorcycling.
He was proud to have purchased his first home in Melbourne and was known for his eternal optimism.
Victoria Police said he was “extremely proud” to have become a police officer and had made a profound impact on the community.
MANHUNT UNDERWAY FOR ALLEGED GUNMAN
A massive manhunt is underway to apprehend Dezi Freeman, who is believed to be heavily armed and hiding in bushland.
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush has urged the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
Freeman is described as wearing khaki tracksuit pants, a dark green rain jacket, brown Blundstone boots, and reading glasses.
Commissioner Bush assured the public that every resource is being poured into the search for Freeman, and NSW Police are on standby to assist if necessary.
The community has been advised to stay indoors and avoid approaching Freeman, who is considered dangerous.
The incident is a sobering reminder of the risks police officers face daily in their duty to keep their communities safe.
Victoria Police are providing support to the families of the fallen officers and are working tirelessly to bring the alleged gunman to justice.