Manhunt for alleged gunman Julian Ingram continues after three people shot dead

NSW’s top police officer has slammed the state’s domestic violence statistics as a “disgrace”, as a man accused of shooting dead three people – including his ex-partner – remains on the run.

Julian Ingram, 37, has been on the run since January 22, when he allegedly killed three people in the central west town of Lake Cargelligo.

His ex-partner Sophie Quinn, 25, and John Harris, 32, were found inside a vehicle with gunshot wounds and both died at the scene.

Police were called to a nearby street a short time later where they found Ms Quinn’s aunt Nerida, who had also been fatally shot.

Kaleb Macqueen, 19, was also shot in the incident and taken to hospital in a serious but stable condition.

A large-scale police operation has been unfolding in the area since the fatal shootings, but Mr Ingram remains at large.

Speaking to reporters in Lake Cargelligo on Thursday, NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said it was a “terrible tragedy that should not occur”.

“Domestic and family violence remains a scourge on our community – NSW Police attend over 160,000 calls for service for domestic and family violence each year,” he said.

“In the last year, we charged over 33,000 individuals with domestic and family violence assaults, which is a disgrace.

“Since I have been the commissioner, I made it really clear that domestic and family violence will be one of my key priorities because of the impact it has on community, and we have seen such a horrific impact here in Lake Cargelligo.”

Mr Lanyon said the community would continue to see a “significant policing presence” until the suspect is brought before the court.

Mr Ingram, also known as Pierpoint, is wanted on an outstanding warrant for murder.

Police describe him as of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, about 165cm to 170cm tall, with medium build, short dark hair and brown eyes.

He was last seen driving a Ford Ranger utility with NSW registration DM-07-GZ, featuring council signage, high-visibility markings, and an emergency light bar.

Specialist police and Defence Force personnel have been deployed to assist with the search. Tactical Operations Unit officers, negotiators, and homicide investigators have joined local officers in Lake Cargelligo and surrounding districts, with Strike Force Doberta leading the investigation.

“This is the fifth day of over 40-degree temperatures. Yet our police have been unwavering. I’m incredibly proud of the work they’re doing and their commitment to this community,” Mr Lanyon said.