UPDATE: Thousands of mourners are gathering today to honor Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, one of the two police officers tragically shot dead in Porepunkah last month. The funeral service is taking place at the Victoria Police Academy chapel in Melbourne starting at 11am today, with emotions running high as the community comes together to pay their respects.
The devastating loss of Senior Constable Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart, who both died on August 26, has left deep scars in Australia’s policing community and shocked citizens nationwide. Both officers were killed while executing a warrant related to alleged historical sex offenses.
The suspected shooter, identified as Dezi Freeman, also known as Desmond Filby, remains at large, prompting a massive manhunt that has heightened tensions in the region. Authorities report that Freeman fled into nearby bushland following the incident, leading to an ongoing search effort.
At the funeral for Constable Thompson, a police hat sits solemnly atop his casket, adorned with a bouquet of flowers, symbolizing the respect and love from the community. Mourners have been seen hugging and comforting each other as they arrive at the chapel for the service.
In attendance are notable figures including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan, and Police Minister Anthony Carbines, who have all expressed their condolences and support for the families affected by this tragedy.
Earlier, a service was held for Constable de Waart-Hottart, where he was posthumously awarded the Victoria Police Star for his bravery and dedication. Police commissioners from across Australia and New Zealand also attended, demonstrating solidarity within the law enforcement community during this trying time.
Following the service for Constable Thompson, a flyover by the air wing is scheduled to honor his memory, accompanied by a police guard of honor exiting the main academy gates, marking a poignant farewell to a dedicated officer who served his community for nearly 40 years.
As the community continues to grieve, officials are urging anyone with information on Freeman’s whereabouts to come forward as the manhunt intensifies. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
