Police launched a $250,000 reward to find a man accused of killing his pregnant ex and two others, but investigators think someone is helping him hide

A $250,000 reward has been announced as police continue searching for a man accused of killing his pregnant former partner and two other people in rural New South Wales. Investigators believe the suspect has remained hidden for weeks and may be receiving help from someone in the community.

The development was reported by The Guardian, which detailed how authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as the search continues. Police say the reward is intended to encourage witnesses or anyone assisting the suspect to break their silence.

Seven weeks after the alleged killings, investigators say they still believe the suspect is alive and actively avoiding authorities. Officials say surviving in remote country without phone or banking activity suggests outside assistance may be involved.

Police say someone may be helping the suspect remain hidden

New South Wales police announced the reward on Tuesday for information that leads to the arrest of Julian Ingram, 37, who is accused of a triple murder in the town of Lake Cargelligo. Authorities say Ingram, who is also known as Julian Pierpoint, has been wanted since January 22.

Assistant Commissioner Andrew Holland said investigators believe the suspect is being supported while on the run. Police say Ingram has remained in arid country for weeks without using his mobile phone or accessing banking services, circumstances Holland said strongly suggest assistance from others. He urged anyone with knowledge of Ingram’s whereabouts to come forward and use the reward as motivation to help police.

Ingram is accused of fatally shooting his pregnant former partner Sophie Quinn, 25, her unborn child, her boyfriend John Harris, 32, and her aunt Nerida Quinn, 50. A 19-year-old man was also seriously injured in the attack in Lake Cargelligo.

Authorities say Ingram was last seen driving a Ford Ranger ute with council signage. Police teams, including search and rescue units and tactical operations officers, have spent weeks searching the region around Lake Cargelligo as the manhunt continues. The broader news cycle has also included the Georgia teacher prank case.

Deputy Commissioner Paul Pisanos said the reward reflects the need for broader community support in locating the suspect. He urged members of the public to provide any information that might help bring closure to the families and the wider community.

New South Wales Police Minister Yasmin Catley described the killings as a shocking act of violence that has deeply affected local residents. She said the police force will continue pursuing the suspect and that even small details from the public could prove crucial in locating him.

Funerals for Sophie Quinn and Nerida Quinn are scheduled to take place this week, and police confirmed there will be a large law enforcement presence at the services. Recent coverage has also included the Rihanna mansion shooting.

Police have also faced questions about a decision to grant Ingram bail two months before the alleged murders after he was accused of assaulting Sophie Quinn. Officials said a risk assessment at the time determined he did not pose an unacceptable risk and noted he had previously complied with court orders.

Court documents referenced in the report describe earlier incidents involving Ingram, including a conviction four years ago for grabbing a family member by the throat. A decade earlier, he also reportedly threatened a former partner, their child, and her mother while claiming he had a gun and intended to harm a man he believed to be her new partner.