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This evening, tributes are being paid to two police officers who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty in Porepunkah earlier this week. Friends, colleagues, and emergency service personnel are gathering to honor their memory.
A significant number of people assembled at Wangaratta Police Station for a memorial that began at 7 pm, dedicated to the memory of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart.
Two minutes of silence was observed outside the station, representing one minute for each of the fallen officers.
CFA trucks, ambulances and men and women in uniform were seen commemorating their colleagues with a military-style salute and march.
The entrance to Wangaratta Police Station is adorned with a growing floral tribute, consisting of numerous flower arrangements and heartfelt cards surrounding images of the two fallen officers.
Thompson’s soccer teammates today remembered “Thommo” as a larrikin, a proud police officer and a man who worked for the community.
“Neil was a tower of a man in every sense,” friend Tom Marshall said.
“Thommo loved his job and he’s very proud of it and, sadly, he’s died doing what he loved.”
“Losing them feels like losing a family member. Police across Australia and possibly worldwide share in the grief we are experiencing, which is truly devastating,” remarked friend Mark Williams.
State officials today met with Thompson’s partner Lisa to offer their support.
Police Minister Anthony Carbines stated, “It was an honor to accompany the Premier and Chief Commissioner Bush in meeting with Mr. Thompson’s wife Lisa, who is also a member of Victoria Police.”
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the officers and their families while wishing success and safety to our police members involved in the pursuit of a dangerous fugitive and armed suspect.”
“Our hearts go out to everyone whose heart is breaking,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.
“We honour the bravery of detective leading senior constable Neal Thompson and senior constable Vadim De Waart and our hopes and prayers are with their fellow officers at the scene, including one currently in The Alfred Hospital in Melbourne receiving treatment for their wounds.
“As a Parliament, as a country, we offer our deepest condolences to all whose worlds have been shattered by this horrific shooting.”
