The family of Dezi Freeman, who killed two police officers before being shot dead himself, are demanding answers about why authorities did not involve them during the three-hour stand-off at his final hideout. Victoria Police shot Freeman dead on Monday morning after a protracted siege at a property in Walwa, north-east Victoria. The central question from Freeman's loved ones is why, during the extensive negotiation period, his family was not brought in to assist in de-escalating the situation. This remains a point of intense frustration for them as they navigate the aftermath of his violent death.
Police have stated they are continuing to investigate potential assistance Freeman received during his seven months on the run following the August 26 killing of senior constable Vadim De Waart-Hottart and detective leading senior constable Neal Thompson in Porepunkah. Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush indicated that a significant focus of the ongoing inquiry would be on identifying any individuals who aided Freeman's evasion.
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The End of a Long Search
The conclusion of the seven-month manhunt occurred on Monday, with officers firing upon Freeman after he emerged from a shipping container at a remote property. Reports suggest Freeman then presented a weapon to police before being fatally shot. This incident brought an end to one of the largest police operations in Australian history. While some locals in Porepunkah expressed relief, others acknowledged a degree of empathy for Freeman's family.
The circumstances of Freeman's death are now under review by the state coroner. Police believe multiple officers discharged their weapons, with one source describing the aftermath as Freeman's body looking like "Swiss cheese" after sustaining numerous bullet wounds. The specific details surrounding who provided the tip-off leading to Freeman's location are still being scrutinized, particularly in light of a significant reward offered for information.
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Freeman's Time on the Run
During his time as a fugitive, Freeman, a 56-year-old described by some as a conspiracy theorist with ties to the sovereign citizen movement, maintained a low profile. Friends claim he harbored a belief he was being targeted and sought to disappear. His extended evasion has raised questions about his survival and potential support networks.
Freeman's partner, Amalia, and his children had presented themselves to police for questioning following his death. While police previously announced that Freeman's wife, Mali, would not face charges for obstruction, they are still keen to interview others, including family members, as part of their investigation. It is believed Freeman was residing in the Walwa area for a "relatively short period" before being apprehended, with suggestions that someone from his "inner circle" ultimately alerted authorities.
Background to the Killings
The events leading to Freeman's status as a fugitive began on August 26 when he fatally shot two police officers at his property in Porepunkah. Prior to his death, Freeman's son, Koah, had resigned himself to the belief that his father was likely deceased. Police have publicly stated they strongly suspect Freeman took his own life shortly after the killings, although this remains a matter for the coroner's investigation. Freeman's background includes a history of volatility and being described as "unemployable."
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