The search for Julian Ingram, a man suspected of being involved in a tragic shooting that resulted in three fatalities and left one individual critically injured, is now on its third day. This incident occurred in the New South Wales Central West region, specifically near Lake Cargelligo.
It’s important to note that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers may find this article distressing as it includes the names of deceased Indigenous individuals, shared with their families' permission.
Approximately 100 officers from the New South Wales Police force are currently combing through Lake Cargelligo and its nearby surroundings in pursuit of Ingram, also known by his alternate name, Julian Pierpont. This search follows a shooting that took place just 130 kilometers north of Griffith on Thursday afternoon.
In a grim discovery, authorities found two bodies—a 32-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman—inside a vehicle parked along Bokhara Street. Meanwhile, police responding to reports of gunfire on Walker Street encountered two more individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. Tragically, 50-year-old Nerida Quinn succumbed to her injuries, while 19-year-old Kaleb MacQueen was transported to a hospital where he is reported to be in serious but stable condition.
The deceased woman, aged 25, was identified as Sophie Quinn, who was also Nerida Quinn’s niece. Heartbreakingly, sources reveal that Sophie was approximately seven months pregnant at the time of her death. A family member reminisced about Sophie, stating, "She adored her friends, cherished her nephews, loved nature, and had a passion for fishing."
Nerida Quinn was described by relatives as a selfless person dedicated to her family. One family member remarked, "She was always there for everyone’s children... She truly loved her family."
Authorities suspect that the shooter, Julian Ingram, who works as a gardener for the local council, had prior acquaintance with both the victims and the police due to previous incidents. The investigation is being treated as a case of domestic violence.
At 37 years old, Ingram was last spotted driving a Ford Ranger utility vehicle adorned with council markings and equipped with a metal tray back. Notably, this vehicle lacks a GPS tracking system, complicating the search efforts.
Ingram has a history of violent behavior and was out on bail for domestic violence charges when this shooting occurred. He was scheduled to appear in court early next month. Assistant Commissioner Andrew Holland, who oversees the Western Region, stated that Ingram had been adhering to his bail conditions prior to this tragic event. "The offender has a long history with criminal matters, though his last violent offense dates back over five years," he noted.
Moreover, it raises questions regarding how Ingram obtained a firearm, as he has never possessed a firearms license in New South Wales. The community of Lake Cargelligo, which boasts a population of around 1,500 residents, has not been placed under an active lockdown; however, locals have been advised to remain alert and cautious.
Assistant Commissioner Holland warned that Ingram is familiar with the local area and could potentially evade capture for an extended duration. "Our last sightings indicated he was on a road exiting Lake Cargelligo, so we are deeply concerned about ensuring public safety at all times," he explained. Law enforcement is strategically stationed throughout the town, and they are collaborating with Indigenous community liaison officers from the Murrumbidgee Aboriginal community to aid in locating Ingram.
"Do not approach the suspect under any circumstances, as we consider him to be both armed and dangerous,” Holland cautioned.
Police have already communicated with the surviving victim and Assistant Commissioner Holland confirmed that support resources are being deployed for the affected families. "The families involved in this heartbreaking situation are undoubtedly struggling," he remarked. "We have established family liaison officers to provide assistance as best as we can, and support from the local community is crucial during such difficult times."
Lachlan Shire Council Mayor John Medcalf highlighted that the closely-knit community will require significant time to heal from this devastating incident. "This is a farming community, characterized by resilience," he stated. "It’s hard to imagine something like this occurring in a place like ours."
Authorities are urging anyone who possesses information, videos, photographs, or any materials that may assist in the ongoing search for Julian Ingram to reach out to the police.
