Lake Cargelligo Shooting: Manhunt Intensifies for Julian Ingram After Triple Murder
In the remote town of Lake Cargelligo, New South Wales, a tragic shooting incident on Thursday has left three people dead and a community in shock. Police are conducting an extensive manhunt for Julian Ingram, also known as "Hoolio," in connection with the killings that have sent ripples of fear through this small outback oasis.
The victims have been identified as Sophie Quinn, who was seven months pregnant, her partner John Harris, and Sophie's aunt, Nerida Quinn. A neighbour, Kaleb Macqueen, was also injured but is expected to recover. The shooting spree, which unfolded over mere minutes, has plunged the town into a state of grief and anxiety, with residents grappling with the brutal reality of the events.
Details of the Shooting and Police Response
According to reports, the incident began when Sophie Quinn and John Harris were sitting in a car outside a house in Lake Cargelligo. A utility vehicle approached, and from the driver's side window, at least three shots were fired, killing both occupants. Sophie Quinn was expecting a baby boy, whom her family had planned to name Troy.
Shortly after, police responded to shouts from neighbours indicating that Ingram was at Nerida Quinn's house, where he allegedly fired more shots. Nerida Quinn, a mother of four and grandmother of six, was found injured and later died from her wounds. Kaleb Macqueen, caught in the crossfire, survived and is hospitalised.
NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Andrew Holland has issued a stark warning to residents, urging them to use extreme caution when moving about. He emphasised that Ingram is presumed armed and dangerous, with the search area expanding due to his familiarity with the bushland. Police suspect Ingram did not leave the council ute he was driving during the attack, making his escape swift and calculated.
Background on Julian Ingram and Domestic Violence Concerns
Julian Ingram, 37, was on bail for alleged domestic violence offences against Sophie Quinn at the time of the shooting. He had reported to the local police station that morning as part of his bail conditions. Court documents reveal that Sophie Quinn had an apprehended domestic violence order (ADVO) against Ingram, set for review in February.
Ingram was charged with stalking, harassment, common assault, and property damage in November, to which he pleaded not guilty. Assistant Commissioner Holland noted that Ingram had complied with all bail conditions and a threat assessment was conducted when bail was granted. However, there was no evidence of stalking immediately before the shooting, though Ingram has a history of violent offences.
Locals describe Ingram as a familiar figure in the community, known for his work with the council and as a brawler at the pub. He never held a gun licence, raising questions about how he obtained the firearm used in the killings. Police are investigating this aspect as part of their ongoing inquiry.
Community Impact and Broader Implications
The Quinn family is well-known in the local Indigenous community, and both Sophie and John Harris were Indigenous. This tragedy highlights a distressing trend: Aboriginal women are disproportionately affected by family violence-related deaths, often at the hands of men known to police. The NSW Aboriginal Land Council expressed deep shock and sadness, calling the victims pillars of the community.
In the aftermath, the town is awash with rumours and innuendo, as residents struggle to comprehend the brutality of the act. Floral tributes have been placed near the crime scene, and bullet holes remain visible at Nerida Quinn's house, serving as grim reminders of the violence.
Police have searched properties in Lake Cargelligo, Euabalong, and Murrin Bridge, with reports of a sighting at Mount Hope, about 70km north. The search is complicated by extreme weather forecasts, with temperatures expected to soar above 44 degrees Celsius, potentially affecting Ingram's ability to evade capture.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety
Authorities are working to cut off any assistance Ingram might receive from known associates, as they believe he could be accessing help to avoid apprehension. His bushcraft skills make the manhunt challenging, with police unable to estimate the search perimeter due to the vast, rugged terrain.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any sightings to police immediately. The community's resilience is being tested, but efforts are underway to support the victims' families and ensure public safety during this critical time.
