Three people were killed and a fourth critically injured in a shooting on Jan. 22 in Lake Cargelligo, New South Wales, roughly 300 miles west of Sydney. Police said the suspected attacker—believed to have targeted people known to him—has been identified but remains at large as a large search continues. Authorities urged residents to stay indoors while investigators work the scene. The event occurred during a national day of mourning following the Bondi Beach attack and comes after recent federal gun-law reforms.
Three Killed, One Critically Injured in Lake Cargelligo Shooting; Suspect Remains At Large
John Carnemolla / Alamy Stock PhotoLake Cargelligo in New South Wales, Australia
Three people were fatally shot and a fourth critically injured in the rural New South Wales town of Lake Cargelligo on Jan. 22, authorities said. The town is located more than 300 miles (around 480 km) west of Sydney.
New South Wales Police said emergency services responded to reports of gunfire at about 4:40 p.m. local time. Police confirmed that two women and a man died at the scene, and another man was transported to hospital in a 'serious but stable' condition. A crime scene has been established and investigators have launched an active inquiry.
GettyNew South Wales Police tape
Suspected Domestic Attack, Person Of Interest Unapprehended
Local reporting from The Sydney Morning Herald and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation indicates the attack is suspected to be domestic in nature. According to those reports, the alleged shooter first shot a woman believed to be a former partner and a man at one residence, then travelled to a second home where he shot two people known to him. A woman at the second location later died and a man was left seriously injured.
"At this stage police have identified an offender who is still at large," Western Region Command assistant Commissioner Andy Holland said, according to 7News. Authorities said a large search operation is under way and asked locals to stay inside while police pursue leads.
Police urged the public to avoid the area and asked local residents to remain indoors. "We will be throwing everything at it that is available," a police spokesperson told the ABC.
GettyA New South Wales Police vehicle in Sydney, Australia
Context And National Response
The Lake Cargelligo shooting occurred as Australia observed a national day of mourning for the 15 people killed in the Dec. 14 terrorist attack at a Hanukkah event on Bondi Beach. That attack also injured dozens of people. In the days following the Bondi incident, Australia's parliament approved gun law reforms on Jan. 20, including a national gun buyback scheme and tighter checks for firearm licenses.
Anyone with information about the Lake Cargelligo incident is asked to contact Central West Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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