A third man has been charged in connection with an alleged shooting in Hillston, in the Riverina region of New South Wales, following an investigation by detectives from the Murrumbidgee Police District. The latest development occurred after police conducted a search of a rural property near Griffith and allegedly uncovered a significant quantity of weapons and other items.

The investigation relates to an incident on 19 August 2026, when police were alerted after a 48-year-old man presented at Hillston hospital with a gunshot wound to his leg. Police allege the man had been shot in the backyard of a home on Burns Street, Hillston, before he walked to the hospital to receive medical treatment. His injury was not considered life-threatening.

Following the shooting, detectives began investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. Crime scenes were established as investigators worked to determine what happened and identify people allegedly connected with the shooting. Police inquiries subsequently led to further arrests and searches in the surrounding Riverina region.

On 4 September, Strike Force Voral detectives, supported by members of the NSW Police Tactical Operations Unit and a dog squad, executed a search warrant at a property in Gunbar, about 75 kilometres west of Griffith. During the search, police allegedly seized four firearms, a crossbow, ammunition and other weapons. Officers also allegedly located prohibited drugs at the property.

A 42-year-old man was arrested at the property and taken to Griffith Police Station. Police subsequently charged him with six offences. Among the allegations is that he discharged a firearm with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. He is also facing weapons-related charges concerning the alleged acquisition of firearms, ammunition and a prohibited weapon while subject to a prohibition order. Another charge relates to an alleged failure to comply with a direction concerning access to digital evidence.

The latest arrest is the third reported charge arising from the Hillston shooting investigation. Two other men have previously been charged and remain before the courts. Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged shooting and the connection between those charged and the evidence recovered during the searches.

The 42-year-old accused was refused bail and is scheduled to appear before Griffith court. No plea has been entered in relation to the latest charges. The allegations against him have not been proven, and he is presumed innocent unless found guilty by a court.

The investigation highlights the work of rural crime and specialist police teams in responding to serious incidents across the Riverina. The seizure of multiple firearms and other alleged prohibited items is expected to form part of the evidence considered as the court proceedings progress.

Police have previously appealed for anyone who witnessed the alleged shooting, has information about the incident or possesses relevant dashcam or mobile-phone footage to contact police or Crime Stoppers.

The investigation remains ongoing, with further court proceedings expected.