A intense manhunt is gripping Victoria's alpine region as police continue their search for Dezi Freeman, the prime suspect in a fatal shooting that has left the community of Porepunkah in shock. The search operation, already complex, is being severely hampered by treacherous weather conditions sweeping across the state.
The incident occurred on Wednesday evening at a rural property on Raywood Road. Emergency services responded to reports of a shooting, discovering one victim with critical injuries. Despite paramedics' efforts, the individual died at the scene.
Victoria Police have identified 40-year-old Dezi Freeman as the alleged perpetrator and have launched a full-scale search operation. Freeman is considered armed and dangerous, with authorities urging the public not to approach him but to immediately contact triple-zero.
Severe Weather Complicates Manhunt
The massive police effort, involving local officers, the air wing, and specialised units, is battling against a severe weather system. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued warnings for damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flash flooding across the alpine area.
"These conditions are significantly challenging our search efforts," a police spokeswoman stated. "The safety of our personnel and the community remains our utmost priority."
Community on High Alert
Residents in Porepunkah and surrounding areas have been advised to remain vigilant, lock their properties, and report any suspicious activity immediately. The unsettling event has profoundly impacted the small community, known for its tight-knit atmosphere.
Police are conducting extensive door-to-door inquiries and establishing roadblocks in the region. The exact circumstances leading to the shooting are still under investigation by homicide detectives.
As the manhunt enters a critical phase, the combination of a potentially dangerous individual at large and the severe weather alert has created a highly volatile situation for Victoria's alpine communities.
