The heartbroken family of Dezi Freeman have broken their silence after the aspiring model's body was discovered in remote Victorian bushland, bringing a tragic end to the three-week search that captured national attention.
The 31-year-old's remains were located by search crews in dense terrain near Porepunkah on Tuesday afternoon, approximately three weeks after she was last seen leaving a Wangaratta pub on September 30.
A Community's Hopes Dashed
Victoria Police confirmed the devastating discovery in a statement, indicating the death is not being treated as suspicious. The news has shattered the hopes of volunteers and community members who had maintained an extensive ground search throughout the ordeal.
"While this is not the outcome we had hoped for, we thank everyone involved in the search for Dezi," a police spokesperson stated. "Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time."
Family's Emotional Tribute
In an emotional statement released through police, Freeman's grieving family described her as "a beautiful soul whose light touched everyone she met."
"Dezi brought so much joy and laughter to our lives," the family shared. "She was pursuing her dreams with such passion and determination. We are utterly devastated by this loss and request privacy as we come to terms with our unimaginable grief."
The Extensive Search Operation
The massive search operation spanned several weeks and involved:
- Multiple police units including Search and Rescue squads
- Local volunteer emergency services
- Aerial surveillance teams
- Community volunteers from across the region
Freeman's disappearance had prompted widespread concern, with friends describing her sudden vanishing as completely out of character for the vibrant young woman.
A report will now be prepared for the coroner as investigators work to piece together the final moments of Freeman's life and determine the circumstances that led to this tragic outcome in the rugged Australian bushland.
