Dezi Freeman, a fugitive who had evaded police for over 200 days after allegedly killing two officers, was fatally shot during a standoff at an isolated property in Victoria. The shooting has sparked debate, with many questions remaining about the circumstances leading to his death.
Freeman had been on the run since August, when he is accused of shooting dead police officers Neal Thompson and Vadim De Waart-Hottart. Police received a tipoff last week that he had been sighted near Walwa, leading them to a remote 35-hectare property near Thologolong. For a full day, officers surveilled the makeshift camp where Freeman was living in a half shipping container, half caravan without running water or electricity.
In the early hours of Monday morning, after a three-hour standoff, police say Freeman emerged from his hideout cloaked in a blanket or doona. He dropped the covering to reveal what is believed to be the service weapon of one of the slain officers. Multiple officers then opened fire; it is not known if Freeman fired back. No police were injured.
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush stated that he had seen video of the confrontation, saying, 'It is quite clear to us now that the deceased was given every opportunity to resolve this peacefully and did not take that option.' Bush confirmed that no other person had been at the property for at least 24 hours but stressed the importance of understanding who helped Freeman during his time on the run.
Investigations are ongoing, including a coronial inquest and a Professional Standards review. Police are working to trace how Freeman survived for months in the rugged mountains and who, if anyone, provided him with food and shelter. The case continues to divide public opinion over the use of lethal force.
