Massive Police Manhunt Underway Following Triple Shooting Tragedy in Australian Town
A major police operation has been launched across New South Wales as authorities intensify their search for a suspected gunman following a horrific triple shooting that claimed three lives, including that of a heavily pregnant woman. The incident has sent shockwaves through the small community of Lake Cargelligo, where the violence unfolded on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
Details of the Tragic Shooting Incident
Police have identified the primary suspect as Julian Ingram, also known as Pierpoint, a 37-year-old man with Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander heritage. According to official reports, the shooting spree began around 4:30 PM on Bokhara Street, where Ingram allegedly targeted 24-year-old Sophie Quinn and her 32-year-old partner, John Harris, while they were driving through the area. Both victims were fatally shot in what appears to have been a targeted attack.
The violence continued as the suspect reportedly made his way to a local residence on Walker Street, where he allegedly shot Sophie Quinn's 50-year-old aunt, Nerida Quinn. In a separate but related incident, 19-year-old Kaled Macqueen was also shot on the driveway of the same property, sustaining serious injuries that required immediate hospitalization. Medical authorities have confirmed that Macqueen remains in serious but stable condition following emergency treatment.
Suspect's Troubled History and Bail Status
Investigations have revealed that Julian Ingram was out on bail for domestic violence charges at the time of the shooting. Court records show that Ingram had been granted bail on November 30, 2025, after being charged with stalking or intimidating with intent to cause fear or physical harm, along with common assault charges related to his former relationship with Sophie Quinn.
Despite pleading not guilty to these charges and being scheduled to appear in court on February 3, Ingram was released under strict bail conditions that required him to report daily to local police and prohibited him from contacting or coming within 100 meters of Sophie Quinn. A police spokesperson has confirmed that Ingram was definitely in a domestic relationship with one of the victims and revealed that the suspected shooter has never possessed a firearms license.
Massive Police Response and Community Alert
Approximately 100 police officers have descended on the tiny Australian community in what has become one of the largest manhunt operations in recent memory. New South Wales Police Assistant Commissioner Andy Holland has issued urgent warnings to Lake Cargelligo residents, advising them to remain indoors, keep away from windows, and immediately report any suspicious activity to authorities.
"This is a profound tragedy that has taken place in a very small country town, and it will have a significant and lasting effect on the entire community," Holland stated during a press briefing, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
Detailed Description of Suspect and Vehicle
Authorities have released a comprehensive description of the wanted man and his vehicle, urging the public to assist in tracing his whereabouts. Julian Ingram is described as:
- Approximately 165cm-170cm tall with a medium build
- Short dark hair and brown eyes
- Last seen driving a Ford Ranger ute with New South Wales registration plates DM-07-GZ
The distinctive vehicle features council branding, a metal cargo bed, high-visibility side markings, and a roof-mounted emergency light bar. Police believe Ingram remains at large and potentially dangerous, prompting widespread concern across the region.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The triple shooting has devastated the close-knit community of Lake Cargelligo, raising serious questions about domestic violence prevention and bail system effectiveness. As the manhunt continues into its critical phase, authorities are coordinating multiple resources and following numerous leads in their pursuit of the suspect.
Police have established dedicated hotlines and are encouraging anyone with information about Julian Ingram's whereabouts or the shooting incident to come forward immediately. The investigation remains active and ongoing, with forensic teams continuing to examine multiple crime scenes throughout the affected areas.
