UPDATE: Police have confirmed that Dezi Freeman, Australia’s most wanted man, is strongly believed to be dead as they launch a renewed search for his remains in the dense high country of Porepunkah. This urgent search began on February 1, 2026, and is set to last for five days, utilizing cadaver dogs and specialized officers from around the country.
Authorities have been on a five-month manhunt following the tragic deaths of police officers Neal Thompson, aged 59, and Vadim de Waart-Hottart, aged 34, who were gunned down while serving a warrant at Freeman’s residence in late August 2025. Detective Inspector Adam Tilley stated, “We don’t believe that he is still in the area alive,” emphasizing their strong belief that Freeman has perished in the national park.
The latest search comes after more than 400 police officers were deployed in the immediate aftermath of the shootings, yet no trace of Freeman was found. He was last seen fleeing into the bushland shortly after the incident. As the investigation continues, police are considering three scenarios: Freeman may be deceased in the park, he could have escaped and is being sheltered by others, or he is surviving alone without support.
Detective Tilley added, “Finding Freeman is our number one priority,” as the police focus on a region near a previously searched area, guided by intelligence about a gunshot heard shortly after the shootings. This renewed effort follows a December announcement that the search had shifted towards locating Freeman’s body.
The tragic loss of the two officers has deeply affected the community. Thompson was mere days away from retirement, and de Waart-Hottart was on a temporary assignment when they were killed. Local leaders, such as Marcus Warner, president of the Bright and District Chamber of Commerce, noted the community’s surprise at the renewed activity, but expressed hope that it would serve as a morale boost.
In a significant move to aid in Freeman’s capture, Victoria Police have announced a historic $1 million reward for information leading to his arrest. This reward is the largest of its kind in the state’s history. Despite no confirmed sightings of Freeman since the incident, Victoria Police Commissioner Mike Bush has stated that they will not relent until they locate him.
Freeman’s wife, Mali Freeman, and their 15-year-old son were previously arrested but released without charges. The community remains on high alert, with local businesses seeing an influx of visitors due to the ongoing searches.
As this situation develops, the police continue to seek public assistance and will remain vigilant in their efforts until they bring closure to the families of the fallen officers and the community at large.
