LAKE CARGELLIGO, NEW SOUTH WALES — A major manhunt is under way in regional New South Wales after a man allegedly shot dead three people — including his pregnant former partner — while on bail for domestic violence‑related charges, police say. The suspected gunman remains at large, described as armed and dangerous as authorities scour the area and urge residents to stay inside for their safety. ([turn0news33][turn0news36])
Alleged Shooter on Bail Amid Domestic Violence Case
The suspect, 37‑year‑old Julian Ingram — also known at times as Julian Pierpoint — was out on police bail on domestic violence‑related matters when the shootings occurred in the small central‑west town of Lake Cargelligo on Thursday afternoon, law enforcement confirmed. The bail was granted in late November 2025, after Ingram faced charges including stalking, harassment with intent to physically harm, common assault and damage or destruction of property. ([turn0news33][turn0news34])
During his bail period, Ingram was subject to strict conditions, including daily reporting to the Lake Cargelligo police station and adhering to an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) that prohibited contact with one of the victims, 25‑year‑old Sophie Quinn, his former partner and one of those killed in the attack. The ADVO was scheduled for review in early February 2026. ([turn0news33][turn0search10])
Police have stated that Ingram had complied with his bail terms, and officers carried out multiple checks while he was on bail, according to Assistant Commissioner Andrew Holland. A risk assessment was conducted before bail was granted, which considered his criminal history and compliance history. ([turn0news33][turn0search10])
Sequence of Alleged Murders Rocks Tiny Community
The alleged shooting spree began around 4:20 pm local time on Bokhara Street, where officers found Sophie Quinn and her friend, 32‑year‑old John Harris, shot and killed inside a vehicle. Shortly afterward, at a separate location on Walker Street, 50‑year‑old Nerida Quinn, Sophie’s aunt, was also found dead and a 19‑year‑old man critically injured, later taken to hospital in serious but stable condition. Investigators believe the victims were connected to the suspect. ([turn0news35][turn0search21])
Authorities have issued a warrant for Ingram’s arrest over three counts of murder and are urgently trying to determine how he obtained the firearm used in the shootings, as he did not hold a firearms licence. Police involvement includes over 100 officers, tactical units and additional resources deployed across the region. ([turn0news36][turn0search21])
Community Locked Down Amid Manhunt
Residents of Lake Cargelligo — a rural town of roughly 1,300 residents — have been strongly advised to stay indoors as the search continues. Streets in the town were reportedly deserted, with shutters drawn and businesses closed while police and tactical units comb the area. Ingram is described as familiar with the local terrain, and authorities are concerned he could evade capture for some time without detection. ([turn0search15][turn0search21])
Lake Cargelligo’s isolation and Ingram’s local knowledge, as a council worker known in the community, have complicated the search. Police are also urging the public to report any sightings or footage that could help with locating him. ([turn0search15][turn0search21])
Bail System Under Scrutiny
The fact that Ingram was on bail at the time of the alleged murders has sparked immediate debate and concern about bail practices, particularly in cases involving domestic violence and serious potential risk factors. Ingram’s criminal history includes previous violent offences, although police noted he had not violated bail or ADVO conditions in recent years. The ongoing situation may prompt closer examination of how bail decisions are made, especially when restraining orders are in effect to protect potential victims. ([turn0search10])
The case also highlights broader questions about access to firearms; police are investigating how Ingram obtained a weapon without a licence, despite being under strict bail conditions and an ADVO. This aspect is particularly sensitive given recent national debates and new gun restrictions passed by the Australian Parliament following the deadly Bondi Beach terror attack in December 2025. ([turn0search15])
State Authorities Respond
New South Wales Police remain tight‑lipped about speculating on motive, focusing instead on public safety and the search operation. Assistant Commissioner Holland has reiterated that the offender is armed and dangerous and urged any residents who spot him to contact police immediately without approaching him. ([turn0search21])
The NSW Premier, Chris Minns, condemned the violence and has pledged continued support for law enforcement and community safety in the wake of the tragedy. Political and community leaders have expressed sympathy for the victims’ families and the broader community, recognising the emotional impact such violence can have on a small, tight‑knit town.
Next Steps in the Investigation
As the manhunt continues, detectives are building their investigation, reviewing evidence, witness accounts and trying to map Ingram’s movements since the shootings. Authorities have also reiterated that the public should remain vigilant and maintain communication with law enforcement via official channels.
The legal implications of Ingram’s bail status and the circumstances surrounding the shootings are expected to be scrutinised heavily once the suspect is apprehended. For now, the priority for police and the Lake Cargelligo community is ensuring residents’ safety and bringing the alleged shooter into custody as swiftly as possible.
7 years in the field, from local radio to digital newsrooms. Loves chasing the stories that matter to everyday Aussies – whether it’s climate, cost of living or the next big thing in tech.
