New Lead in Police Officer Murder Investigation
Victoria Police are actively investigating witness reports of a single gunshot heard near the property of alleged police killer Desmond Freeman on the same day he murdered two officers. The investigation has taken investigators to the semi-rural area of Porepunkah, approximately 300km northeast of Melbourne, where the tragic shooting occurred on August 26.
Firearms Testing Conducted in Search Area
Investigators confirmed on Sunday that specialized firearms testing had been conducted in the vicinity of Barrett Lane and Rayner Track earlier this week. This testing forms a crucial part of the ongoing investigation into the alleged shooting that claimed the lives of two dedicated police officers.
The forensic examination focused on reports of a single gunshot heard around 11.45 am on August 26 - the same day Freeman allegedly opened fire on police officers serving a warrant at his property. Firearms tests are used to determine how sound travels through specific terrain, potentially helping investigators pinpoint the exact location where the reported gunshot originated.
"Investigators are hopeful that the firearms testing may assist police with the ongoing search," Victoria Police told 7NEWS.com.au. Despite thorough searches of the area, no trace of Freeman has been discovered to date.
Ongoing Manhunt for Alleged Police Killer
Desmond Freeman, also known as Desmond Filby, has been on the run since allegedly shooting three police officers in August. The 56-year-old is accused of killing Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart, while seriously injuring a third officer.
In a chilling additional detail, police revealed Freeman allegedly attempted to kill a fourth police officer by pointing his gun and pulling the trigger, but the firearm failed to discharge.
The large-scale police operation, designated Taskforce Summit, has continued for months since the Porepunkah shooting. Despite extensive ground searches and hundreds of police resources deployed, Freeman has managed to evade capture.
Victoria Police have issued a public appeal, stating: "Police are keen to speak to anyone who may have heard this gunshot, including any members of the public who may have been in the area at the time and believe they could be the person responsible."
A $1 million reward has been offered for information leading to Freeman's arrest, marking the largest reward ever offered for an arrest in Victoria's history.
Authorities have warned the public that anyone who sees Desmond Freeman should phone triple zero (000) immediately and under no circumstances approach him, as he is considered armed and extremely dangerous.
