On August 26, tragedy struck the Victoria Police Force when Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Vadim De Waart-Hottart, 35, were killed by a perpetrator named Freeman.
Detective Thompson had a long and distinguished career with Victoria Police, having joined in September 1987. He initially served in general duties at Collingwood Police Station for seven years before transitioning to roles as a detective. His positions included stints at the Major Fraud Squad and the State Crime Squad. In July 2007, he took up his most recent role at the Wangaratta Criminal Investigation Unit (CIU). Colleagues have described him as an adventurer with a love for the outdoors and a dedicated individual who partnered with Lisa, his long-time companion, for six years prior to his untimely death.
In contrast, De Waart-Hottart was a relatively new recruit, entering the police force in 2019. His early assignments included stints in Maryborough and St Kilda, before he became part of the Public Order Response Unit. He was remembered fondly by his parents, who characterised him as a beautiful, kind, wise, and joyful individual. De Waart-Hottart was also praised for his unshakeable nature, calm confidence, and strong commitment to serving the community.
Both officers are mourned not just for their service but for the lives they touched during their time in the force. Their deaths have elicited widespread sorrow, reflecting the profound impact they had on their colleagues and the people they served.