NSW shooting leaves three dead as gunman escapes in rural town

Published: 22 January 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

A deadly NSW shooting has left three people dead as police continue searching for the gunman responsible. Residents of Lake Cargelligo, a small country town in central western New South Wales, were shaken on Thursday when emergency services were called to reports of gunfire, triggering an immediate police operation. The NSW shooting, confirmed by authorities, occurred around 4.20pm, with officers discovering multiple casualties and a gunman believed to be fleeing the scene in a vehicle. Locals have been urged to stay indoors as the search continues for the armed suspect.

NSW police said upon arrival, a man and woman were found deceased inside a vehicle. Shortly afterward, a second report of gunfire led officers to Walker Street, where another woman was found dead and a man critically wounded. Assistant Police Commissioner Andrew Holland confirmed the man remained in hospital, while the deceased included a pregnant woman. Police said all victims resided locally, but authorities have not released the gunman’s identity or motive.

The suspect is currently at large, with police resources from surrounding areas assisting in a large-scale search. Holland described the incident as devastating, emphasizing that “any death in a small country town is confronting, but a scene involving firearms is especially alarming.” The tragic events are expected to have a profound effect on the tight-knit community of Lake Cargelligo, which has a population between 1,300 and 1,500.

State MP Roy Butler, representing Barwon, said the news had just reached him after arriving off a plane. He described the shooting as “devastating news for the community and for NSW,” highlighting the inclusion of a pregnant victim among the fatalities. Social media posts from Butler urged residents to remain vigilant while authorities worked to locate the armed offender. Police have explicitly stated that the NSW shooting is not being treated as terror-related.

Locals have shared harrowing accounts of the day. A Commercial Hotel staff member reported heavy police presence and described staying inside for safety. A nearby motel manager said the atmosphere in the town was tense, with fears escalating as additional police reinforcements arrived. Community members have expressed shock and grief, with many describing the situation as unprecedented in the small rural area.

Authorities continue to investigate the NSW shooting, working to confirm the identities of those involved and understand the circumstances leading to the tragedy. Holland emphasized the strain on emergency responders who arrived at the scene, acknowledging the difficult scenes they confronted. Law enforcement has called on anyone with information regarding the gunman or the incident to contact police immediately, stressing the urgency of apprehending the suspect to prevent further harm.

This tragic NSW shooting underscores growing concerns about public safety in regional areas and the challenges faced by law enforcement when responding to sudden violent incidents. Local residents have been advised to cooperate with authorities, avoid unnecessary travel, and report any suspicious activity. While investigations continue, the community remains in mourning, struggling to comprehend the loss of life and the terrifying events that unfolded.

Police have committed to keeping the public updated on the search for the gunman and any new developments. The NSW shooting serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of safety in even the most tranquil towns and the importance of rapid emergency response. Community support services have been mobilized to assist those affected, and mental health resources have been offered to survivors and witnesses.

As Lake Cargelligo grapples with grief and uncertainty, the search for the gunman continues. Residents, officials, and authorities are united in their efforts to restore safety and address the impact of this violent NSW shooting on the local population. Police urge anyone with relevant information to come forward as the investigation advances. This tragedy is expected to resonate across the region, highlighting the profound effects of such violent incidents on small communities.

Check our latest news