Manhunt After Two Police Officers are ‘Murdered in Cold Blood’ by Heavily Armed Fugitive

A massive manhunt is underway in rural Australia after a suspected gunman opened fire on a team of police officers Tuesday morning, killing two and seriously injuring a third. Authorities warn the suspect is “heavily armed” and “extremely dangerous.”

The incident unfolded just after 10:30 a.m. local time on August 26 in the small town of Porepunkah, located about 186 miles northeast of Melbourne in Victoria’s High Country.

According to Victoria Police, ten officers were executing a warrant at a property on Rayner Track when chaos erupted. Shots rang out, leaving a 59-year-old detective and a 35-year-old senior constable dead at the scene. A third officer suffered severe lower-body injuries and remains hospitalized in serious condition.

“This was an unprovoked and cold-blooded attack on police officers carrying out their duty,” said Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush in an emotional statement. “Two of our finest have been murdered in cold blood. This is one of the darkest days our force has faced.”

Authorities have identified the suspected shooter as Dezi Freeman, a local man in his 50s who describes himself as a “sovereign citizen,” a term used for anti-government extremists who believe laws don’t apply to them.

According to the Herald Sun, Freeman may have fled the scene with hostages — reportedly his partner and two children — though police have not confirmed this.

“We are still working to locate his family,” Bush told reporters. “At this stage, we cannot confirm if they are with him. What we do know is that he is heavily armed and has fled into rugged bushland. We are treating him as extremely dangerous.”

Multiple outlets, including the ABC, report that the officers were at the property to execute a warrant related to historical sex offense allegations. Authorities have declined to comment further, citing the ongoing investigation.

A helicopter from the Victoria Police Air Wing has been circling the area as tactical teams scour dense terrain. Residents have been urged to lock their doors and stay indoors until further notice.

“This offender is on the run, and he knows the area,” said Bush. “Do not approach him. Do not take any risks.”

Tributes have poured in from across Australia. Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan called the killings “an unspeakable tragedy,” writing on X:

“Victoria Police officers, and all our first responders, show extraordinary bravery and courage every single day. They are the best of us. Our thoughts are with the families, colleagues, and loved ones of the fallen.”

Police departments nationwide have expressed solidarity. The Queensland Police Service offered “our deepest condolences to all those affected by the tragic loss,” while the NSW Police Force sent “heartfelt condolences” and praised the officers’ bravery.

Authorities continue to hunt for Freeman across miles of rugged wilderness, deploying drones, helicopters, and heavily armed tactical units.

“This is not over,” Commissioner Bush said bluntly. “We will find him. He will be held accountable.”

Residents of Porepunkah and surrounding towns remain on edge as officers search door-to-door. Police have warned travelers to avoid the area entirely until further updates.