Three individuals lost their lives in a shooting incident in a rural town in New South Wales, prompting a significant police operation to locate the suspected shooter. The tragic event took place on Walker Street near Yelkin Street in Lake Cargelligo, Central West NSW, at approximately 4:40 pm on Thursday. Two women and a man were fatally shot during the incident, while another man sustained serious injuries but is currently in stable condition after being rushed to the hospital.
According to authorities, the Central West Police District responded to the scene following reports of the shooting. The alleged shooter, who is subject to an apprehended violence order (AVO), fled the area using a council-owned vehicle. Police are actively searching for the vehicle as part of their ongoing investigation into the incident.
As the operation continues, the public is advised to avoid the area, and local residents are urged to remain indoors. Further updates will be provided by the police as more information becomes available. Lake Cargelligo, situated around three hours southwest of Dubbo, is a small town known for its water activities such as sailing, kayaking, water-skiing, and swimming.
Witnesses in the town reported a heavy presence of police cars and ambulances following the shooting. Local parliament member Roy Butler expressed his condolences, describing the event as tragic news for the community located 370 miles west of Sydney. The shooting occurred on a national day of mourning as Australia commemorates the victims of a recent mass shooting in Sydney. The Australian parliament swiftly passed new gun regulations in response to the tragedy.
The situation remains fluid, and authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.