Massive Police Search Continues for Fugitive in Rural NSW Triple Homicide
A desperate manhunt is intensifying across rural New South Wales as police pursue a fugitive accused of a horrific triple murder that has shocked a small community. Julian Ingram, 37, remains at large following the alleged shootings on Thursday, with authorities now investigating the possibility that he is receiving help from associates to remain in hiding.
Details of the Alleged Attacks
The violent spree is alleged to have begun when Ingram approached a black Suzuki hatchback in Lake Cargelligo, approximately 600 kilometres west of Sydney. Inside the vehicle were his former partner, Sophie Quinn, 25, who was heavily pregnant, and her new boyfriend, John Harris, 32. Both were fatally shot.
Ms Quinn, who had separated from Ingram last year, was reportedly due to give birth to a baby boy in March. Following this initial attack, Ingram is then alleged to have travelled to another residence where he killed Ms Quinn's aunt, Nerida Quinn, 50, and seriously injured a 19-year-old neighbour, Kaleb MacQueen.
Expanding Police Operation
Since the alleged murders, approximately one hundred police officers have been deployed across the region in an extensive search operation. New South Wales Police Commissioner Andrew Holland confirmed that officers had attended two premises in the nearby town of Euabalong but were unable to locate the suspect.
"We are looking at other locations in the broader districts based on information that has been supplied to police at this time," Commissioner Holland told reporters. The search area has been significantly widened as the investigation enters its third day.
Possibility of Assistance from Associates
Authorities have not ruled out the theory that Ingram may be receiving help to avoid apprehension. "That's one of the avenues of our investigation," Commissioner Holland stated. "Mr Ingram has worked in the area for a long time. He was known to a lot of people in the area, and he's well known among the community."
Police are actively contacting known associates in an effort to eliminate potential support networks. "It is possible he is seeking help from people he knows," Holland added. "There is the possibility that people are assisting him to obviously avoid police apprehension."
Community Safety and Lockdown Status
Commissioner Holland confirmed that the lockdown previously imposed on Lake Cargelligo has been lifted, allowing residents to move freely throughout the town. However, he issued a stern warning to locals.
"They need to have the knowledge in the back of their minds that this offender is still on the loose and there is a possibility they could come across him," he cautioned.
Description and Vehicle Details
Ingram is described as being between 165 and 170 centimetres tall with a medium build, short dark hair, and brown eyes. He was last seen driving a Ford Ranger utility with New South Wales registration DM-07-GZ. The vehicle features council signage, a metal tray back, high-visibility side markings, and an emergency light bar on the roof.
Police have indicated that Ingram may have since switched vehicles and are urging anyone who sees him not to approach but to contact Triple Zero immediately.
Previous Court History and Bail Conditions
Court records reveal that Ingram appeared at Lake Cargelligo Local Court on December 3rd over allegations of stalking, intimidating, and assaulting Ms Quinn, along with damaging her property. He pleaded not guilty and was granted bail with strict conditions, including daily reporting to Lake Cargelligo Police Station and staying at least 100 metres away from her home and workplace.
Records also show that Ingram was a known domestic violence offender, having pleaded guilty in 2021 to assaulting another woman in Griffith. When questioned about the bail decision during a press conference, Commissioner Holland explained that a risk assessment had been conducted at the time.
"At that time, he had not committed a violent offence in the last five years and, therefore, was deemed fit," Holland stated. "With strict bail conditions and an AVO in place, it was deemed suitable."
The investigation continues as police specialists ramp up their efforts to locate Julian Ingram, with the community remaining on high alert while the extensive manhunt unfolds across the rural districts of New South Wales.
