Victoria Police has expressed dismay over the circulation of footage allegedly showing fugitive Dezi Freeman shooting two officers dead in Porepunkah. The footage, taken by a member of Freeman's family, was reportedly obtained by multiple news outlets, which published still images on Wednesday.
Detective Superintendent Jason Kelly described the release as “distressing and disappointing,” particularly for the families of the slain officers, Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart, 35. The officers were killed on 26 August while executing a search warrant at a property in the state's north-east.
The footage reportedly captures Freeman arguing with police and refusing to open the door to a bus where he lived with his family. After an officer entered through a window, two shots were heard. Police confirmed the footage was not from body-worn cameras.
Authorities have received over 200 tips following a $1 million reward for information on Freeman's whereabouts. Kelly stated police are keeping an open mind about whether Freeman has killed himself, is hiding in the bushland, or has fled the alpine region. No confirmed sightings have been made.
Superintendent Craig Darlow urged the public to avoid the area, warning that Freeman may be “roaming around” with firearms, including weapons allegedly taken from the slain officers. Freeman's wife, Amalia, has pleaded for him to surrender.
