Australia’s most dramatic manhunt has come to an end with Victoria Police shooting dead fugitive Dezi Freeman.
Freeman was shot around 8.30 this morning at a property in the state’s north east.
Freeman had been in hiding in the Porepunkah area since August of last year after two police officers were shot dead when police attended his property while executing a warrant.
Police confirmed a shooting had taken place this morning.
“A man has been fatally shot by police at a property in Northeast Victoria this morning as part of the operation to locate Desmond Freeman,” a statement read.
“The incident occurred at the rural address shortly after 8.30am on Monday, 30 March.
“No police officers were injured during the incident.
“The state coroner will attend the scene, and the investigation will be oversighted by Professional Standards Command, as per standard process for a police shooting.
“Further information will be released today as the situation develops.”
Police earlier this year adjusted their search after the conclussion was reached that Freeman had killed himself.
The Victorian Police Association says it will not “…reflect on the loss of a coward.”
“Our members said they would find him. They did,” a statement read.
“We will remember the courage and bravery of our fallen members and every officer that has dodggedly pursued this outcome for the community.
“Days like today offer a sobering reminder that policing happens while you sleep, when the media spotlight on an investigation dims and when everything seems lost and forgotten.
“RIP Vadim and Neale. Today, we remember you.”
