‘Don’t shoot’: Couple threatened at gunpoint before suspect allegedly torched stolen van
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A gunman armed with a sawn-off shotgun remains on the run in Sydney’s inner west after allegedly threatening a couple who confronted him over a stolen van before setting the vehicle alight.
The incident unfolded about 10.20am on Friday, with police called to the corner of Williams Parade and Constitution Road in Dulwich Hill over unconfirmed reports of gunfire.
Police have released an image of a man that may officers believe may be able to assist with inquiries. NSW Police
However, Superintendent Despa Fitzgerald said that no shots were fired, but she confirmed the armed man remained at large.
“We can confirm that no shots were fired at the scene,” she said.
In a press conference just after 1pm (AEDT), Fitzgerald said police were conducting a widespread search.
Lockdown restrictions were eventually lifted, but a crime scene remained in place on Williams Parade, with drivers urged to avoid the area.
Police released a picture of a man they believe may be able to help with the investigation.
Fitzgerald said the armed man, believed to be in his 20s, was inside a van that was reported stolen a couple of days ago from the Inner West, before he set it alight.
Fitzgerald said members of the public had already begun calling authorities to report sightings of the alleged offender.
“If you see this person, please call Triple Zero, do not approach this person,” she said.
A large police presence remains on scene. Nine News
“We understand he is armed with a shotgun.”
A postman delivering parcels in the area told 9News he heard the commotion in a car park on Williams Parade as a couple confronted a man over the allegedly stolen van.
The man allegedly threatened the couple with the shotgun.
One resident told 9News she witnessed the confrontation from her balcony.
Superintendent Despa Fitzgerald confirmed that while no shots were fired, the armed man remains on the run. 9News
“You hear ‘he’s got a gun, oh my God, don’t shoot, don’t shoot’,” she said.
“He points the gun at them ... they start screaming, and then they sprint down the road, trying to get away from him.”
Police described the man as Caucasian, aged in his 20s, about 160 centimetres tall, with a thin build and shaggy brown hair.
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He was last seen wearing a black hooded jersey and long black pants.
More than 50 officers, including the riot squad, scoured the area, with residents urged to stay indoors.
No injuries have been reported, and no arrests have been made.
A Dulwich Hill cafe was locked down, while locals were asked to remain indoors. Nine News
Several businesses were evacuated, and nearby Dulwich Hill Public School was placed into lockdown as a precaution.
Light rail services between Dulwich Hill and Lilyfield were suspended but have since resumed.
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