LAKE CARGELIGO, NSW – A major manhunt is underway in rural New South Wales after a deadly shooting on Thursday afternoon claimed three lives, including that of a pregnant woman, and left a fourth victim fighting for his life. Police have named the suspect as Hoolio Ingram, also known as Julian Peirpoint, a Lachlan Shire Council employee now accused of one of the region’s most horrific crimes in recent memory.
The quiet town of Lake Cargelligo, approximately 450 kilometers west of Sydney, has been placed under an effective lockdown. Residents are being told to shelter in place, and roadblocks have been established as heavily-armed police from multiple commands scour the area for the armed and dangerous suspect.
A Scene of Devastation on Walker Street
Emergency services were called to Walker Street, near the intersection with Yelkin Street, at approximately 4:40 p.m. after reports of a man opening fire. Upon arrival, police discovered a scene of carnage.
Three victims were pronounced dead at the location: two women and one man. In a detail that has sent waves of shock through the community, Assistant Commissioner Andy Holland confirmed that one of the female victims was pregnant. A fourth victim, a man, was transported to a local hospital where he remains in serious but stable condition.
A crime scene has been established, and forensic investigators are working to piece together the sequence of events.
The Hunt for a Named Suspect
Police have publicly identified the alleged gunman as 28-year-old Hoolio Ingram, also known as Julian Peirpoint. Authorities revealed that Ingram, who is believed to work for the Lachlan Shire Council, was under an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) at the time of the shooting, indicating a history of concerning behavior.
“It’s understood he fled the scene in a council-owned vehicle, which we are actively searching for,” Assistant Commissioner Holland stated at a press briefing. “We have a coordinated, large-scale search underway involving general duties officers, specialist police, and the Dog Unit. Our absolute priority is locating this individual and ensuring community safety.”
Community in Lockdown and Shock
The normally peaceful rural community is reeling. The town center has been shut down, with businesses closing and residents advised to remain indoors until further notice. Local services, including the Lake Cargelligo Taxi Truck company, have warned of significant disruptions.
“This is a tragedy that has shaken our close-knit community to its core,” said Lachlan Shire Mayor. “Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and everyone impacted by this horrific event.”
Police are urging anyone with information on Ingram’s whereabouts not to approach him but to immediately call Triple Zero (000) or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. The situation remains dynamic, with police vowing to provide updates as the manhunt progresses.