POLICE are following through on numerous lines of inquiry into three murders that have taken place at Lake Cargelligo in central-western New South Wales.
Strike Force Doberta has been established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Andy Holland said the suspect, 37-year-old Julian Ingram, is still at large.
Police have confirmed the alleged shooter was on bail for alleged domestic violence charges.
Ingram, also known as Pierpoint, is described as being about 165cm-170cm tall, of a medium build with short dark hair and brown eyes.
He was last seen driving a Ford Ranger utility with NSW registration DM-07-GZ described as having council signage, a metal tray back, high visibility markings on the side and an emergency light bar on the roof.
“At this stage, we’ve cleared a number of premises in the local area and we have also identified a number of places which are being reviewed in relation to search patterns for the future,” Asst. Comm. Holland said.
“We have other information which has been put forward in relation to possibly other vehicles involved, but again, that is yet to be confirmed.”
Ingram was on bail at the time of the alleged murders.
“The offender was on police bail initially and later he went before the court and the court saw fit to continue the police bail,” Asst. Comm. Holland said.
“Our last sightings were on a road out of Lake Cargelligo, hence our concerns for obviously making sure the public is safe at all times.
There are up to 100 police involved in the search, with officers flown in by PolAir and the Defence Force, including Tactical Operations Unit, negotiators, and homicide investigators.
Police confirmed the murders were DV-related, with the offender on bail with ADVOs in place.
“The offender has a long history with criminal matters in relation to violent offences.
“We are aware that one of the victims may have been pregnant (but) at this point, we can’t confirm any more about the information,” Asst. Comm. Holland said.
He stressed Lake Cargelligo is not “locked down” but asked residents to stay indoors where possible.
“They are free to move about the town if they wish to get essential goods or services but again, for their own safety, we recommend they stay inside.”
Member for Barwon, Roy Butler, said in a statement the events in Lake Cargelligo have been deeply distressing.
“My thoughts are with the victims’ families and the entire community during this difficult time,” Mr Butler said.
As this remains an active investigation, police are limited in what information they can release.
“I understand that the presence of low-flying helicopters and a significant number of tactical police has caused concern, particularly for children.
“I want to reassure the community that these resources are deployed solely to ensure public safety.
“Serious questions remain as to how an individual with an extensive criminal history, and who was ineligible for a firearms licence, was able to obtain a firearm and ammunition.
“This will form a critical part of the police investigation,” Mr Butler said.
Mr Butler said Lake Cargelligo is a strong, highly connected community.
“Everyone is coming together and looking out for and supporting one another during this challenging time,” he said.
