A body discovered in a decomposed state next to an abandoned utility vehicle in remote New South Wales is believed to be that of Julian Ingram, the 37-year-old man accused of murdering his pregnant former partner, her new boyfriend and her aunt in January. Police found the body and a firearm at Round Hill nature reserve, about 50km north-west of Lake Cargelligo, on Monday.
Ingram, also known as Julian Pierpoint, had been the subject of a large-scale manhunt since 22 January, when he allegedly shot and killed Sophie Quinn, 27, John Harris, 32, and Nerida Quinn, 50, in Lake Cargelligo. He was on bail at the time for alleged domestic violence offences against Quinn, who was seven months pregnant. Assistant Commissioner Andrew Holland said the body appeared to have been there for some time, and formal identification and cause of death are pending.
Police had offered a $250,000 reward for information leading to Ingram's arrest in March, after scouring 60,000 acres of land. Holland noted that the discovery brings closure to the investigation and some solace to the Lake Cargelligo community. He added that it is not yet known if the firearm found next to the body was the same weapon used in the shootings.
The case has faced scrutiny over Ingram's bail grant in November for stalking, assault and property damage charges, despite an apprehended domestic violence order taken out by Quinn in December. Police have defended the decision, stating a risk assessment found he did not pose an unacceptable risk and had previously complied with court orders. A critical incident investigation into police handling of the case is ongoing.
