Lake Cargelligo in Lockdown Following Alleged Triple Murder Involving Pregnant Victim
A devastating alleged triple murder has plunged the small town of Lake Cargelligo in central west New South Wales into lockdown, with a pregnant woman and her unborn son among the victims. The tragedy, which police are treating as a domestic violence incident, has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community located approximately 600 kilometres west of Sydney.
Victims Identified as Police Launch Manhunt
The victims have been identified as 25-year-old Sophie Quinn, who was expecting a child, and her 32-year-old boyfriend. They were discovered deceased inside a vehicle at Lake Cargelligo around 4:20 PM on Thursday, both suffering from gunshot wounds. Shortly after, police located the body of a 50-year-old woman and a seriously injured 19-year-old man in a nearby driveway. All are reported to be members of the Quinn family.
Authorities have named Julian Ingram, Ms. Quinn's ex-partner, as the alleged offender. A large-scale manhunt involving specialist police personnel, including tactical units and homicide investigators, is underway. Ingram remains at large, prompting an urgent public appeal for information.
Community Reels as Sister Pays Heartfelt Tribute
The alleged murders have profoundly affected the community of Lake Cargelligo, which has a population of just 1,430 residents. On Friday morning, Ms. Quinn's sister, Tegan, posted a moving tribute on social media, describing her as "my sister and best friend" and honouring her aunt, the 50-year-old victim.
Western Region Command Assistant Commissioner Andy Holland addressed the media, confirming the domestic nature of the incident. "We're conducting a wide-scale search of the area around Lake Cargelligo and the adjoining villages," he stated. "At this point, we're looking for the public to help us identify both the wanted offender and his vehicle."
Police Description and Ongoing Search
Julian Ingram is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, approximately 165cm to 170cm tall, with a medium build, short dark hair, and brown eyes. He is believed to be driving a Ford Ranger utility with New South Wales registration DM-07-GZ. The vehicle features council signage, a metal tray back, high-visibility markings on the side, and an emergency light bar on the roof.
Police have urged anyone who sees Ingram not to approach him and to immediately contact triple zero. Information regarding his whereabouts can be provided to Crime Stoppers. The town remains under lockdown more than 14 hours after the initial incident, with residents advised to stay indoors.
Impact on a Small Town
Assistant Commissioner Holland emphasised the profound impact on the community. "What I will say is that it's a tragedy that has taken place in a very small town that will have a big affect on the community," he remarked. "Any death in a small country town is confronting, but again, a scene where you have people shot by firearms is obviously going to make people very, very tense and very, very concerned."
One local resident recounted the tense atmosphere, telling media, "We have been told not to go out of our premises. The town is made of just two main streets – we can hear the sounds (of the sirens)." The injured 19-year-old man was transported to hospital and is reported to be in a serious but stable condition.
