Three Dead as Gunman Opens Fire in New South Wales Town

Three Dead as Gunman Opens Fire in New South Wales Town

At least three people have been killed and one other seriously injured in a shooting incident in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, prompting a large-scale police operation and lockdown in the affected community.

The incident occurred in Lake Cargelligo, a small town in the Central West region of New South Wales, where emergency services responded to reports of gunfire on Thursday afternoon. According to NSW Police, officers arrived to find two women and one man dead at the scene, while another man was rushed to hospital with serious but stable injuries.

Authorities confirmed that the suspected gunman fled the area, triggering an immediate manhunt involving tactical police units, helicopters and roadblocks. Residents were advised to remain indoors, avoid public areas and report any suspicious movement, as police worked to secure the town.

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Investigators have established multiple crime scenes across nearby streets and are working to determine the exact sequence of events and motive. While officials have not confirmed a motive, early assessments suggest the shooting may be linked to a domestic or personal dispute, though this has not been officially verified.

The tragedy has reignited national discussions about gun violence and community safety in Australia, particularly in the wake of other high-profile attacks in New South Wales over the past year. Although Australia maintains some of the strictest gun laws globally, recent incidents have renewed calls for enhanced monitoring, mental health intervention and rural policing support.

State authorities expressed condolences to the victims’ families and assured the public that every available resource is being deployed to apprehend the suspect. Police say further updates will be provided as investigations progress and once it is safe for residents to resume normal activities.

The identities of the victims have not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.

Three Dead as Gunman Opens Fire in New South Wales Town