In a shocking incident, three people have tragically lost their lives in a shooting at Lake Cargelligo, a small town in central western New South Wales. The gunman remains at large, and police have urged locals to stay indoors as the search continues.
Emergency services were called to the area around 4:40 pm on Thursday after reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they found two women and a man had been fatally shot. Another man was rushed to the hospital in a serious but stable condition.
According to NSW Police, a major operation is underway to apprehend the suspect, with additional resources being brought in from surrounding areas. Residents have been advised to avoid the area and remain inside their homes until the situation is resolved.
“The public is urged to avoid the area and for local residents to stay inside,” the police statement said. A geo-targeted text message has also been sent to residents, reiterating the call to stay indoors.
A staff member at the Commercial Hotel, located in the town centre, described the scene, saying, “I’m just inside, trying to not be around.” A local motel manager also expressed concern, stating, “It’s a little bit scary, and I believe more police are headed to the area.”
Roy Butler, the NSW MP for Barwon, which includes Lake Cargelligo, took to social media to express his condolences. “It’s a terrible situation, and it’s still live, so we don’t have much information. My thoughts are with the victims and their families,” he said.
The police have confirmed that they are not treating the incident as terror-related. However, the investigation is still ongoing, and the authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
This tragic event has sent shockwaves through the small community of Lake Cargelligo, and the nation as a whole. As the search for the gunman continues, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of the residents and providing support to the affected families.