South Mackay, Queensland – A tragic incident unfolded when a woman was fatally shot through the window of her car in a random attack while taking two children to a sporting activity. The 34-year-old victim’s car was parked in the driveway of a residence on Robb Place in South Mackay when the 31-year-old alleged shooter shot her, leading to her death.
The accused, Ryan Geoffrey Cole, lived on the same street as the victim but had no prior known connection to her. He has been charged with her murder, as well as the attempted murder of a neighbor who tried to help the victim. Witnesses described the weapon used in the attack as a revolver-style gun.
The children who were with the victim at the time managed to escape the scene unharmed and sought help from a 66-year-old neighbor. Unfortunately, this neighbor was also shot by the alleged attacker, sustaining injuries to his hand and sternum. He is currently in stable condition at Mackay Base Hospital and is scheduled for surgery.
Detective Acting Superintendent Emma Novosel revealed that the children were 11 and 12 years old and were with the woman on her way to a sporting activity when the tragedy occurred. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and an investigation is underway to determine the events leading up to the violent incident.
The alleged shooter had left the scene before law enforcement arrived, triggering an emergency response under the Public Safety Preservation Act. The area was cordoned off, and police tracked the suspect to a service station along the Bruce Highway, where he was apprehended without resistance. The PSPA was lifted later in the evening, with authorities confirming no further threat to the public.
Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski emphasized the need to closely examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and the suspect’s access to firearms, especially considering his previous licensing and subsequent confiscation of weapons in 2021. The tragic loss of life and the serious injury inflicted serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of senseless violence in the community.