A host of Melbourne landmarks were lit up blue overnight to remember the two police officers killed in the line of duty on Tuesday.
Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, 35, were allegedly gunned down by Dezi Freeman, 56, while executing a search warrant at his Porepunkah property, in northeast Victoria.
A third police officer was rushed to hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery for serious injuries to his lower body.
The Melbourne Town Hall, National Gallery of Victoria and Flinders Street Station were among several buildings lit up blue on Wednesday night to honour the fallen heroes.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said Thompson and De Waart served the state with bravery and honour.
“On behalf of all Victorians I’d like to convey our deepest sympathies to their families, friends and colleagues, and the entire Victoria Police family,” she said.
A major manhunt has entered its third day for Freeman, who fled his property after the shooting.
It’s believed he is in possesion of an arsenal of weapons and is very dangerous.
Locals have been urged to stay inside if possible.
“I can assure everyone that we are pouring every resource into this search for this person,” Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush said.
“We have a large team investigating this crime and we have a large team that are absolutely focused on finding this suspect.
“All of our specialist resources are there to make this happen.
“The hunt will continue until we find him. ”
Freeman was last seen wearing khaki tracksuit pants, a dark green rain jacket, brown Blundstone boots and reading glasses.
National Gallery of Victoria. Credit: 7NEWS
Flinders Street Station. Credit: 7NEWS
Melbourne Town Hall. Credit: 7NEWS
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Dezi Freeman has evaded police for another night, as Porepunkah residents stay on high alert.
Dezi Freeman has evaded police for another night, as Porepunkah residents stay on high alert.