Sydney suburb lockdown lifted as manhunt continues for person with shotgun

A large swathe of Dulwich Hill in Sydney’s inner west has been locked down by police as they search for a man reportedly carrying a shotgun who allegedly set alight a stolen car in the area before fleeing on foot.

A police helicopter and armed tactical police focused their search for the man on an area around Williams Parade and Constitution Road.

Police were called to a car park on Williams Parade at about 10.20am on Friday in response to reports of a stolen vehicle. Officers were told a man carrying a longarm weapon was sitting inside the vehicle. It is alleged the man then set the car alight before fleeing on foot.

Speaking to reporters, police Supt Despa Fitzgerald said: “Do not approach this person – we understand he’s armed with a shotgun.”

She said there was no indication shots had been fired.

Police described the man as being of Caucasian appearance, aged in his 20s, about 160cm tall and of thin build, with shaggy hair. He was last seen on Union Street wearing a blue T-shirt and long black pants.

No injuries have been reported. Police have been doorknocking, telling residents to stay inside.

Light rail services in the area have been suspended and nearby businesses and cafes have been put into lockdown, along with neighbouring primary schools.

People outside the police exclusion zone are being advised to avoid the area.