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Police Lock Down Sydney’s Inner West

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Police locked down parts of Dulwich Hill in Sydney’s inner west on Friday after an armed man allegedly threatened witnesses, set fire to a stolen van, and fled on foot. Authorities confirmed no shots were fired as tactical units, the PolAir helicopter, and the dog squad continued searching for the suspect.

Williams Parade Confrontation and Van Fire

Emergency services rushed to the corner of Williams Parade and Constitution Road in Dulwich Hill at about 10:20am on Friday following reports of a vehicle fire and unconfirmed gunfire. Witnesses told Smh there had been an altercation in a carpark near an apartment complex between a man and another group of people before a vehicle was set alight. A local postman delivering parcels in the area heard the commotion as a couple confronted the driver over an allegedly stolen vehicle.

The suspect allegedly pointed a gun at people attempting to leave the area and set the van ablaze before escaping on foot. Fire and Rescue NSW crews extinguished the blaze, and forensic officers established a crime scene to examine the burnt-out vehicle. Police noted that the van was not stolen from the location but had been taken several days earlier from the Inner West Area Command.

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Superintendent Despa Fitzgerald Confirms No Shots Fired

Speaking to media during a press conference, NSW Police Superintendent Despa Fitzgerald addressed conflicting initial reports regarding gunfire at the scene. She confirmed that investigators found no evidence of bullets being discharged, despite witnesses reporting an armed individual.

The witnesses and also the crime scene examination as we’re going through it now, there is no indication of shots being fired.

Superintendent Despa Fitzgerald, NSW Police

Superintendent Fitzgerald added that forensic investigators were deployed to glean any information from that vehicle. She also noted that authorities were investigating whether the suspect had fled the immediate area in another vehicle or received outside assistance, keeping the perimeter active while the search continued.

Schools Lock Down and Suspect Described

Heavily armed tactical officers, the riot squad, general duties officers, and the PolAir helicopter scoured Dulwich Hill as authorities imposed strict lockdowns across streets, local businesses, and nearby schools, including Dulwich Hill Public School and Summer Hill Public School. Light rail services between Dulwich Hill and Lilyfield were suspended as the police perimeter expanded toward Arlington station. Police began escorting residents back to their homes while advising motorists to avoid the affected zone.

The suspect is described as Caucasian, aged in his 20s, approximately 160 centimetres tall, with a slim build and shaggy hair. He was last seen wearing a blue T-shirt and long black pants while carrying a shotgun. Authorities have urged anyone who spots the individual to avoid him entirely and contact emergency services immediately.

Police officer on street walking next barber sign
Photo: ABC

If you see this person, please call triple zero. Do not approach this person.

Superintendent Despa Fitzgerald, NSW Police

Police have received at least one possible sighting from a member of the public and continue appealing for any available dashcam or mobile phone footage from witnesses in the Dulwich Hill area.

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