State-Wide Manhunt: Critical Incident Declared as Hunt for Julian Ingram Intensifies in Far West

In Short

• Critical Incident Declared: NSW Police have launched a formal investigation into the police handling and history of the case as the search for 37-year-old Julian Ingram scales up.

• Focus on Mount Hope: Intelligence suggests Ingram was near a property 3km south of Mount Hope on the Kidman Way between January 24 and 25.

• Specialist Deployment: Tactical Operations, Drone units, and the ADF are currently concentrated in the Hay, Balranald, and Central Darling shires.

NSW Police have formally commenced a critical incident investigation as the manhunt for 37-year-old Julian Ingram enters a high-priority phase across the state’s west.

In New South Wales, a Critical Incident Investigation is a formal, high-stakes process triggered when a police operation results in death or serious injury.

Its primary purpose is to ensure accountability by determining if the officers involved acted lawfully and followed the strict framework of NSW legislation and internal police policies.

The investigation is governed by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission Act 2016 (specifically Section 113) and the NSW Police Force Critical Incident Guidelines.

The investigation is not just a "review"; it is a comprehensive inquiry led by a Senior Critical Incident Investigator from a different command to ensure independence. It must evaluate:

• Lawfulness and Reasonableness: Were the officers’ actions legal under the Crimes Act 1900 or Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act 2002 (LEPRA)? Was the force used "proportionate"?
• Compliance with Policy: Did the officers follow the NSW Police Handbook or specific standard operating procedures (e.g., Safe Driving Policy)?
• Procedural Integrity: The investigation itself must follow strict protocols, such as mandatory alcohol and drug testing of involved officers within two hours of the incident.
• Systemic Issues: Does the incident reveal a need for better training, equipment changes, or updated policies?

The investigation ends with a formal report. If the investigation finds that legislation or policy was breached, it can lead to criminal charges against officers, disciplinary action (under Section 173 or 181D of the Police Act 1990), or systemic reform (changes to how all police officers in NSW are trained or equipped or act).

The development comes as specialist teams intensify their presence in areas surrounding Lake Cargelligo and the Kidman Way, directly impacting rural communities throughout the Hay, Balranald, Carrathool, and Central Darling shires.

The investigation, operating under Strike Force Doberta, follows the alleged shooting last month in Lake Cargelligo that claimed the lives of a 25-year-old pregnant woman, a 32-year-old man, and a 50-year-old woman.

A 19-year-old man also sustained serious injuries during the incident.

Internal Scrutiny and Domestic Violence Review

The declaration of a critical incident investigation is a procedural step designed to ensure that all NSW Police actions adhered strictly to legislation and internal policy.

Beyond the search itself, investigators are now tasked with a comprehensive review of the suspect's history.

"Investigators will also examine the full domestic violence history of the alleged suspect and his access to firearms," a police spokesperson stated.

The inquiry is being led by a critical incident team from the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad.

To ensure transparency, the process is subject to independent review by the Professional Standards Command and oversight by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.

Police have identified a specific window of interest near Mount Hope, a key transit point for those travelling between Hillston, Cobar, and Hay.

Intelligence suggests that Julian Ingram - who also uses the name Julian Pierpoint - may have been at a rural property approximately 3km south of Mount Hope on the Kidman Way between the evening of Saturday, 24 January, and Sunday, 25 January 2026.

Specialist resources currently deployed in the region include:

• Tactical Operations Units and Regional Support teams.
• Rescue and Bomb Disposal units providing search coordination and drone piloting.
• Rural Crime investigators working alongside Central West Police District officers.

NSW Police have reiterated that locating Ingram remains their primary focus and have urged the public to remain vigilant but rely on official channels for updates.

"Police wish to reassure the community that locating Julian Ingram remains a priority, as officers continue to investigate under Strike Force Doberta with intelligence-led policing at the forefront," the statement continued.

Authorities have expressed gratitude for the logistical support provided by the Rural Fire Service (RFS), the Rapid Relief Team, and the Australian Defence Force during the ongoing operation.

Public Notice:

Immediate Danger: If you witness suspicious activity or fear for your safety, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Non-Emergency Information: Contact 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Confidentiality: Information provided to Crime Stoppers is managed confidentially. The public is reminded not to report sightings or tips via NSW Police social media pages.