Victoria Police have made a significant breakthrough in a disturbing murder case after arresting a 41-year-old man following the discovery of a body in a shallow grave near Myrtleford.
The victim has been identified as Dezi Freeman, who had been reported missing five days prior to the grim discovery. The arrest occurred at a residential property in Myrtleford, sending shockwaves through the rural community.
Detectives from the Homicide Squad confirmed they located human remains in a shallow grave in remote bushland outside the town. The discovery followed an extensive land search involving specialist police units and local officers.
The suspect, whose identity remains protected, is currently assisting police with their inquiries. He was taken into custody without incident at the Myrtleford property where forensic teams have established a crime scene.
"This is a tragic outcome for what began as a missing persons investigation," a police spokesperson stated. "Our thoughts are with the victim's family during this devastating time."
Local residents expressed their shock at the developments in the quiet Victorian town. The community had previously participated in search efforts for Mr. Freeman before the investigation turned to a homicide case.
Police are expected to continue their forensic examination of multiple locations as they work to establish the circumstances leading to Mr. Freeman's death. The exact cause of death has not been officially disclosed pending autopsy results.
This developing story represents one of the most serious criminal investigations in the region's recent history, with police vowing to continue their work until justice is served.
