29-05-2025
Gunman identified, faces 30 charges after Queensland town lockdown
A 25-year-old man is facing 30 charges following an alleged shooting incident which sparked a 10-hour police manhunt that forced parts of a small Queensland town into lockdown.
Detectives alleged Luke Ralston fired multiple rounds into a house on Arthur Street in the early hours of Wednesday morning, before fleeing the scene.
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Police were called to the residential property in the rural town of 10,000 residents shortly before 4am following reports of gunshots.
Officers found visible bullet holes in the exterior walls of the targeted house.
'A number of people were able to leave the property safely prior to police arrival,' Queensland Police said in a statement.
The police alleged the South-Burnett man fled the scene, believed to be armed and travelling in a black Suzuki Swift with false number plates displaying 551GE9.
A large-scale manhunt ensued, with access to Kingaroy Hospital restricted and nearby schools, including Saint Mary's Catholic College, placed into lockdown or advised to close as a precaution.
The dramatic search ended 10 hours later, at about 1.30pm, when Ralston was arrested on Foleys Road at Goodger, about 15 minutes south of Kingaroy.
Police allege Ralston was in possession of five stolen high-powered rifles and a machete, which were seized from a red Subaru he allegedly stole while attempting to evade authorities.
Ralston has been charged with a string of offences, including acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm, dangerous conduct with a weapon, dangerous driving, and stealing.
No injuries were reported during the incident.
Police
Ralston's case was mentioned at Kingaroy Magistrates Court on Thursday and has been adjourned until August 8.
