Authorities in New South Wales have dramatically expanded their search area following new information that suggests a person of interest may have travelled far beyond the original location linked to a deeply troubling incident earlier this week. The development has prompted renewed concern and raised questions that investigators say cannot yet be ruled out.
Late on Saturday night, police received information regarding a possible sighting in Mount Hope, a remote settlement located almost 100 kilometres from Lake Cargelligo. The report indicated that a vehicle believed to be connected to the case had been seen in the area shortly before midnight. As a result, armed specialist police units were deployed to the region in the early hours of Sunday, marking a significant shift in the direction of the search.
Assistant Commissioner Andrew Holland confirmed that officers were actively examining multiple properties in and around Mount Hope. While authorities believe the individual may currently be alone, they have acknowledged that assistance from others remains a possibility and continues to be a key line of inquiry.
“We cannot rule out that someone may have offered support, knowingly or otherwise,” Holland said during a media briefing. “That is something we are actively investigating.”
Mount Hope is a sparsely populated settlement, with fewer than twenty residents recorded in the most recent census. Its isolation, combined with rugged terrain and limited access roads, presents both logistical challenges and investigative opportunities for police. Officials noted that the area is one the individual is believed to know well, having previously spent time working in surrounding districts.
Despite the increased police presence, authorities stressed there is no formal lockdown in place. Residents have been advised to remain cautious, report any unusual activity, and allow officers to carry out their work without interference.
Back in Lake Cargelligo, police activity has continued alongside the expanded search. On Sunday morning, officers were seen examining properties connected to known associates. One local resident, who acknowledged a past friendship with the person of interest, told media he had not seen or spoken to him since earlier in the week, when both had attended routine reporting obligations at a police station.
Further afield, specialist units were also deployed to rural land north-west of Lake Cargelligo on Saturday. A convoy including tactical response vehicles, investigative teams, and medical support units was observed entering a large property. According to those familiar with the land, the area contains temporary work camps used seasonally, which may be known to individuals with experience in outdoor or agricultural work.
Police have appealed to the public for information regarding a specific utility vehicle believed to be relevant to the investigation. They have reiterated that members of the public should not attempt to approach anyone they believe may be connected to the matter, but instead contact emergency services or Crime Stoppers immediately.
As the search continues, authorities have praised the cooperation of local communities and emphasised that all information, no matter how small it may seem, could prove valuable. For many residents across the region, the sudden expansion of the search has brought renewed unease, but also hope that clarity and resolution may be closer.
Police say they remain committed to following every credible lead, wherever it may take them.