DNA Test Revelation Allegedly Sparked Deadly Shooting Spree in Rural Australia
A chilling triple murder case in rural New South Wales has taken a devastating turn, with local residents claiming that a DNA test result revealing the alleged gunman was not the father of his ex-girlfriend's unborn baby served as the "final straw" that triggered the deadly violence.
Community in Fear as Manhunt Intensifies
Julian Ingram, 37, remains at large after allegedly gunning down his heavily pregnant ex-partner Sophie Quinn, 25, alongside her new boyfriend John Harris, 32, in Lake Cargelligo last Thursday. The horrific spree continued when Ingram allegedly proceeded to another residence where he killed Quinn's aunt Nerida Quinn, 50, and seriously injured a 19-year-old neighbour.
Approximately one hundred police officers are currently scouring the surrounding rural areas for Ingram, who is also known as Julian Pierpoint. The search has extended to Mount Hope, located approximately an hour's drive from Lake Cargelligo, with local business owners expressing genuine fear for their safety.
Paternity Revelation Described as Triggering Event
A resident of Lake Cargelligo has provided disturbing insight into what may have motivated the alleged attacks, telling The Daily Telegraph that confirmation Ingram was not the biological father of Ms Quinn's baby "tripped him" in the week preceding the tragedy.
"The thing that really tripped him in the last week, I think, before this event, the baby that she was carrying... was confirmed not (to be) his child. That's the final straw," the resident explained.
This account aligns with statements from Mr Harris's cousin, Derek, who told the Daily Mail last Friday that uncertainty surrounded the paternity of Ms Quinn's unborn son, named Troy, who was due in March. "It could have been Julian's, it could have been John's. I suppose we'll never know now," he said.
Alleged Gunman's Background and Bail Conditions Scrutinised
Court records reveal that Ingram appeared at Lake Cargelligo Local Court on December 3rd, facing allegations of stalking, intimidating, and assaulting Ms Quinn, as well as damaging her property. Despite pleading not guilty, he was granted bail with strict conditions, including daily reporting to police and a prohibition on approaching Ms Quinn's home or workplace.
Police records indicate Ingram was a known domestic violence offender, having pleaded guilty to assaulting another woman in Griffith in 2021. When questioned about the bail decision, authorities stated a risk assessment was conducted at the time, noting he had not committed a violent offence in the preceding five years and was therefore "deemed fit" for release with strict conditions and an Apprehended Violence Order in place.
Local Knowledge Fuels Community Anxiety
Friends and acquaintances have described Ingram as a pig hunter, gardener, and tree-feller with extensive knowledge of the local bushland. One long-term resident suggested this familiarity could be aiding his evasion of authorities.
"He knows who's who, who's friendly with who, who might put him up if he makes his way into town... A lot of information he gathered would, you might say, set him up for the position he's in now," the resident told the Telegraph.
This deep local knowledge has reportedly heightened fears within the community, with some residents concerned Ingram may return to target individuals he believes have wronged him. "They'll be thinking 'I did wrong by him, will I be next?'" the source added.
Business Owners Displaced by Safety Concerns
The ongoing manhunt has significantly disrupted life in the region. Chris and Leanne Frankel, owners of the Royal Hotel in Mount Hope, have been forced to abandon their premises due to safety fears, relocating to a rural property instead.
Chris Frankel revealed police delivered a stark warning: "If you don't need to be here, you shouldn't." The couple now anxiously await the conclusion of the police operation so they can return to their business and home.
Police Description and Public Warning
New South Wales Police have released an updated description of Ingram, who stands between 165cm and 170cm tall with a medium build, short dark hair, and brown eyes. He was last seen driving a Ford Ranger utility with NSW registration DM-07-GZ, featuring council signage, a metal tray back, high-visibility side markings, and an emergency light bar on the roof.
Authorities have not ruled out the possibility that Ingram may have since switched vehicles. The public is strongly urged not to approach him if sighted and to contact Triple Zero immediately. While police state the town is not officially in lockdown, streets remain unusually quiet aside from the significant police presence, reflecting the palpable tension gripping the community.
