New South Wales police have launched an extensive manhunt for Julian Ingram, a 37-year-old suspect, following a tragic triple murder in the small town of Lake Cargelligo. The incident, which occurred last Thursday, has left the community in shock as investigators work tirelessly to locate Ingram, who is believed to be alive and possibly receiving help from acquaintances in the area.
Details of the Lake Cargelligo Shooting
Julian Ingram, also known as Julian Pierpoint, is suspected of fatally shooting three individuals in Lake Cargelligo, located approximately 450 kilometres west of Sydney. The victims include his pregnant former partner, Sophie Quinn, 25, her new boyfriend, John Harris, and her aunt, Nerida Quinn, 50. A fourth person, Kaleb Macqueen, 19, was injured in the attack and is currently receiving medical treatment.
The shootings took place in two separate locations on Bokhara Street and Walker Street, with police responding to reports around 4:20 PM last Thursday. Sophie Quinn and John Harris were found shot in a car, while Nerida Quinn and Kaleb Macqueen were discovered in a driveway. Nerida Quinn succumbed to her injuries at the scene, highlighting the severity of the violence.
Police Investigation and Community Concerns
NSW police assistant commissioner, Andrew Holland, has expressed confidence that Ingram is still alive, citing the extreme weather conditions in the region, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. Holland noted that Ingram likely has access to food and water, possibly through pre-stored supplies or assistance from people he knows in the community. "He has to have access to food and water," Holland stated, emphasising the challenges of the search in such harsh environments.
Ingram, who worked as a brushcutter for the local council, is familiar with the area, including water sources and potential hiding spots like caves. This local knowledge has complicated the police efforts, as they systematically search properties, some spanning over 400,000 hectares in the Mount Hope area, where a witness reported seeing Ingram.
Domestic Violence and Bail Conditions
At the time of the shootings, Julian Ingram was on bail related to domestic violence allegations made by his former partner, Sophie Quinn. NSW police commissioner, Mal Lanyon, has indicated that Ingram's bail conditions will be a key part of the ongoing investigation. Lanyon highlighted the broader issue of domestic and family violence, stating, "Domestic and family violence remains a scourge on our community." He revealed that last year alone, police charged over 32,000 people with domestic and family violence assaults in New South Wales.
The police presence in Lake Cargelligo remains significant, with authorities committed to ensuring community safety until Ingram is apprehended and brought before the court. Lanyon assured residents, "I want to make sure that not only are you safe, but you feel safe."
Ongoing Search Efforts
The search for Julian Ingram continues under extraordinary conditions, with police enduring multiple days of extreme heat. Commissioner Lanyon praised the dedication of the officers involved, saying, "This is the fifth day of over 40-degree temperatures, yet our police have been unwavering." Ingram was last seen driving a white single cab Ford Ranger, and police are following leads across the region to track him down.
As the investigation progresses, authorities urge anyone with information to come forward, emphasising the importance of community cooperation in resolving this case. The tragedy in Lake Cargelligo serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence and the critical need for ongoing support and intervention.
