WARNING: This article contains distressing content and references to Aboriginal people who have passed away.
NSW Police have began a critical incident investigation into the Lake Cargelligo killings, probing the alleged gunman's domestic violence history and his access to firearms.
Julian Ingram, 37, is accused of shooting and killing his former partner and two others, whilst seriously injuring a third in Lake Cargelligo on January 22.
It's alleged the council worker then fled town in a white Ford Ranger work ute. He remains at large.
Police have issued a warrant relating to the alleged murders, and are conducting a mammoth man hunt aided by specialist police teams from State Crime Command, Tactical Operations Unit, Tactical Operations Regional Support, Negotiation Unit, Rescue and Bomb Disposal including search co-ordination and drone pilots, Rural Crime investigators, and investigators from Central West Police District.
While his whereabouts are unconfirmed, police believe Ingram was seen on a property 3 kilometres south of Mount Hope, on Kidman Way, on the night of Saturday January 24.
Critical incident investigation launched
The critical incident investigation was launched on Monday, with police saying it will "ensure all actions and investigations of the NSW Police adhered to the legislation, policy and guidelines".
"Investigators will also examine the full domestic violence history of the alleged suspect and his access to firearms," a statement read.
The investigation, led by the critical incident team from State Crime Command's Homicide Squad, will be subject to an independent review by the Professional Standards Command and the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC).
Ingram has a long criminal history, and was on bail after being charged with domestic violence offences in November.
NSW Police freed Ingram on strict conditions after deeming him 'low risk', as he hadn't committed a violent crime in five years.
In December, a magistrate at Lake Cargelligo Local Court confirmed bail for Ingram and an interim apprehended domestic violence order (ADVO) was issued on behalf of his former partner.
His bail conditions required Ingram to report daily to the Lake Cargelligo Police Station. His last report was 8.12am on January 22, more than 30 hours before the alleged killings.
