Fugitive Killer Shot Dead After 7-Month Manhunt

0:00On March 30, Australian police believed they finally caught up to Desi Freeman, the 56-year-old fugitive accused of killing two officers. Back in August, he allegedly opened fire on a team of ten cops in a remote Victoria town before vanishing into the bush for seven months. Earlier this week, things came to a head during a three-hour standoff at a rural property northeast of the state. Doctors shot and killed a man around 8.30 a.m., and they're convinced it's Freeman, though formal ID is still pending. The massive manhunt involved over 450 officers and a $1 million reward for tips leading to his capture. Freeman, who also went by Desmond Philby, was known for his expert survival skills and stash of powerful firearms hiding out in places like Mount. Buffalo National Park Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush called the shooting justified, saying the guy had chances to surrender, but didn't, and they believe he was armed. No officers got hurt in the exchange.

1:00This wraps up a tense chapter down under, with investigators piecing together the final details as the community breathes the sigh of relief. I'm Cory with the story, and you've been listening to Global News today, AI-powered global coverage.