Three people have been shot dead in Lake Cargelligo, a small town in New South Wales, Australia, authorities said on Thursday, prompting a lockdown as police continue to search for the gunman. Emergency services were called to the scene in the late afternoon following reports of gunfire.
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Police confirmed that two women and one man were killed, while another man was taken to hospital in serious but stable condition. “A police operation is currently underway at Lake Cargelligo,” local authorities said, urging residents to stay indoors and the public to avoid the area.
#Shootout at #LakeCargelligo, #NSW: Walker St causing 3 dead (2 women,1 man) & 1 man critical
. Gunman still armed & at large, police on manhunt. #NSWShooting #Australia pic.twitter.com/n0A2VVVTin— Dr. Subhash (@Subhash_LiveS) January 22, 2026
Local media reported that the shooting is suspected to be a case of domestic violence, with the gunman reportedly armed with a long firearm and holed up within the town. Lake Cargelligo, located approximately 611 kilometres west of Sydney, has a population of around 1,100.
The incident comes just a month after a mass shooting at Bondi Beach during Hanukkah, which left 15 people dead and triggered a nationwide debate on gun control. In response, the Australian government passed new laws enabling a national gun buyback program and stricter background checks for firearm licences. New South Wales, the state with the highest gun ownership in Australia, recently limited individuals to owning four firearms and mandated gun club membership for licence holders.
Police investigations into Thursday’s shooting are ongoing, and authorities have not yet released information about the suspect’s identity or motive. Residents have been advised to remain inside until the situation is resolved.
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The shooting has reignited concerns over gun violence and domestic safety in Australia, highlighting the challenges faced by small towns in responding to armed attacks.