Police Efforts Continue as Dezi Freeman Search Hits Milestone

Authorities have announced a significant development in the ongoing search for alleged cop killer Dezi Freeman, who has been missing since August 26, 2025. Following nearly two months of intensive efforts, parts of Mount Buffalo National Park in Victoria have reopened to the public, although police stress that the search for Freeman will continue vigorously.

Freeman, 56, is wanted in connection with the shooting deaths of officers Neal Thompson and Vadim de Waart-Hottart, along with the injury of a third officer at his home in Porepunkah. After the incident, police believed he may have fled into the surrounding bushland. Consequently, sections of the national park were closed as investigators combed the area with assistance from the Victoria Police Air Wing and other specialized units.

As of Tuesday, nearly seven weeks after the shooting, police have concluded that they can safely reopen parts of the park, although they will maintain a strong presence in the area. In their statement, Victoria Police emphasized that the reopening does not signify the end of their efforts.

Freeman’s brother, James Filby, has expressed deep concern, suggesting that his brother may have perished in the wilderness. Filby stated, “What Dez did was wrong, but he’s my brother and I miss him. I know he would want to be buried on Mount Buffalo and never found by police. But we need closure.” He speculated about the conditions Freeman may have faced, expressing hope that his brother has found peace.

The search for Freeman has involved hundreds of officers and resources from Australia and New Zealand. Police have engaged with over 800 individuals, conducted searches of numerous properties, and investigated more than 1,600 pieces of intelligence, including tips from the public. The entire operation has reportedly cost taxpayers close to $100 million, and heavily armed officers will remain stationed in the vicinity.

Despite the extensive search efforts, Commissioner Mike Bush confirmed that investigators still lack concrete information about Freeman’s whereabouts. He stated, “Is he still alive? We don’t know. Is he alive and still in the area? We have no real information to suggest that.” He further added that police are considering various scenarios, including the possibility that Freeman may be receiving assistance from others.

The public is encouraged to assist the investigation. Police are urging anyone with hunting or trail cameras in the area to check their footage and report any relevant information. A dangerous person alert remains active on the Vic Emergency website, advising locals and visitors to stay vigilant.

To facilitate the search, police have offered a $1 million reward for information leading to Freeman’s capture, marking the largest financial incentive in Victoria’s history for such an arrest. As the investigation continues, authorities are committed to pursuing every lead to resolve this case effectively.