A major police operation is under way in Dulwich Hill, Sydney, after a man allegedly threatened three people with a sawn-off shotgun during a dispute involving a stolen van.
Heavily armed tactical officers, general duties police and a helicopter were deployed near Williams Parade and Constitution Road at about 10.20am on Friday. The area has been sealed off as officers search for the man, who remains at large.
Witnesses said the van, which had been stolen from a neighbouring suburb earlier in the week, was set alight before the man fled on foot carrying the shotgun. Police received reports of gunfire shortly afterwards but later confirmed that no shots had been fired at the scene.
The suspect is believed to be in his early 20s, about 160 centimetres tall, with a thin build, brown shaggy hair. He was last seen in Union Street and is thought to be wearing a blue T-shirt and long black trousers.
Businesses and cafes nearby have been placed into lockdown, while Dulwich Hill Public School and Summer Hill Public School are continuing lessons under “lockout” procedures. Parents have been asked not to attend or call the schools while the measures remain in place.
Police have also locked down some apartments on Williams Parade, with officers escorting residents to their homes. People travelling through the suburb have been redirected and residents have been urged to stay indoors.
Inner West Police Area Commander Despa Fitzgerald urged anyone who saw the man to call triple zero, warning them not to approach him.
“Do not approach this person – we understand he’s armed with a shotgun,” Fitzgerald said.
Officers are expected to reassess the exclusion zone near Williams Parade as the school day ends and the afternoon peak approaches. Light rail services between Dulwich Hill and Lilyfield were suspended for several hours but have since resumed.
No injuries have been reported and no arrests have been made. A heavy police presence is expected to remain in Dulwich Hill while the search continues.
