As the search for Dezi Freeman drags into its fourth day, the atmosphere in Wangaratta is heavy with grief and anxiety. The local police station is adorned with flowers and heartfelt messages honoring the two officers tragically killed in the line of duty.

At the center of this devastating saga are detective Neal Thompson, a beloved figure looking forward to retirement, and senior constable Vadim De Waart, a bright young officer on temporary assignment. Their untimely deaths have left the community and the police department shattered.

Victoria's Deputy Commissioner Russell Barrett held a press conference to discuss the ongoing search, expressing deep gratitude for the community's support while describing this case as one of the most challenging in the history of Victoria Police. "We are using every available asset in this search, but terrain is complex and dangerous," he stated.

Freeman, who allegedly shot the officers before disappearing into the rugged wilderness of Mt. Buffalo, is believed to have extensive knowledge of the area, complicating the search efforts. Police are grappling with not only physical challenges—heavy rains and impending snow—but also the possibility that Freeman might have set up hideouts or booby traps in the surrounding bushland.

Local residents, like Glen, who has known Freeman for two decades, believe the search could extend over several days. "This is his back yard, and he knows it better than the cops know theirs," Glen remarked.

In an aggressive move to locate Freeman, police conducted multiple raids on local properties, including one listed as vacation accommodation. Officers clad in black stormed the property, searching for any signs of the fugitive.

While authorities have advised the public to avoid non-essential travel, life in the town is slowly resuming as locals strive for a sense of normalcy. Schools and cafes are cautiously opening, with business owners prioritizing their staff's safety.

In a direct plea, local Superintendent Brett Kahan urged Freeman to surrender peacefully. "If you are watching this, call us. We will support a surrender plan," he urged during the press conference.

As the community grapples with its loss and uncertainty, the search for Dezi Freeman continues, enshrouded by both fear and hope.