Manhunt Underway in Gippsland After Alleged Axe Attack on Family

Emergency services were called to a property on Cowies Road about 12:30pm on Saturday, where police allege O'Ryan first assaulted his brother during an argument, then turned on his parents.

Two male victims, aged 76 and 47, were airlifted to The Alfred hospital with life-threatening injuries. A 74-year-old woman was taken to hospital with critical injuries. Detective Senior Sergeant Rod Findlay described the injuries as “very, very extreme … a lot of injuries requiring really serious treatment by the ambulance, and then they’ve been flown for immediate surgery”.

Police believe the weapon used was a blunt axe or tomahawk, though this has not been confirmed. “At this stage we definitely believe he’s still likely armed with that axe,” Senior Sergeant Findlay said.

O'Ryan fled the address on foot and remains at large. Police said he is of no fixed address and is known to take refuge in abandoned properties or outhouses in the Morwell area. He was last seen wearing a distinctive black-and-mustard-coloured jacket, and is described as being of medium build with dark grey hair.

A search involving police on the ground and a helicopter is underway. “The community will notice a lot of police in the Tyers and Morwell area today,” Senior Sergeant Findlay said. “You’ll see the helicopter overhead, no doubt — we are working furiously to try to bring him into custody.”

Police have warned members of the public not to approach O'Ryan if they see him. Anyone with information is urged to call Triple Zero (000) immediately, or contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Why This Matters

The attack has left three members of one family in intensive care, with life-threatening or critical injuries, causing significant trauma to a small rural community.
A suspect believed to be armed with an axe remains at large, posing a potential public safety risk to residents and visitors in the Tyers and Morwell area.
The intensive police search, including helicopter support, indicates the seriousness of the incident and the urgency of capturing the alleged offender.

Background

Gippsland is a largely rural region in eastern Victoria. Axe attacks are uncommon in Australian crime, and these events have shocked the local community. Police are coordinating a large-scale ground and air search, typical for a suspect considered armed and dangerous who fled on foot in bushland near small towns.

Key Perspectives

Victoria Police: Their priority is public safety and apprehending O'Ryan. They are actively searching and have warned the public not to approach him. Detective Senior Sergeant Rod Findlay has urged O'Ryan to surrender, stating police are “working furiously” to bring him into custody. The Victims' Family: The family members are in intensive care at The Alfred hospital, receiving urgent medical treatment. Their condition is severe, and the community will be anxious for updates. Local Community: Residents of Tyers and Morwell are likely on high alert, with a visible police presence and helicopter activity. Many will be concerned for their safety while the suspect remains free.

What to Watch

Whether Peter O'Ryan is apprehended in the coming hours or days, given police are actively searching with multiple resources.
Updates from The Alfred hospital on the condition of the three victims.
Any statements from Victoria Police on whether the search radius has expanded or if charges have been laid once the suspect is in custody.

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