By KATRINA BRANDON
POLICE are on a manhunt after an incident in Tyers over the weekend.
Police were called to a Tyers property last Saturday (September 5) after three people sustained significant injuries after being allegedly being assaulted by a man.
The offender, who is known to the victims, attended a Cowies Road address about 12.30pm.
The offender fled the scene and the victims were able to call emergency services for help.
Police have released the name of the the alleged offender as Peter O’Ryan. He was said to be armed with an axe or tomahawk.
Family Violence Investigation Unit Detective Senior Sergeant Rod Findlay addressed media outside Morwell Police Station last Sunday (September 6).
Det Sen Sgt Findlay said Mr O’Ryan allegedly had an argument with his brother that led to the incident, leaving his brother, mother and father injured and requiring to be air lifted to the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne.
“The injuries are very extreme, very serious injuries,” Det Sen Sgt Findlay said.
“I’ve been working in family violence a long time. This is some of the most serious offending I’ve ever seen, without a doubt.
“At this stage, we definitely believe he’s likely still armed with that axe, and the public are really cautious around any dealings. If they see him, do not approach him. Call triple zero straight away and and let us know.”
Due to the state of the victums, police were only able to get a basic understanding of the alleged details that happened between Mr O’Ryan and his family members.
Det Sen Sgt Findlay said officers continue to look for Mr O’Ryan, through boots on the ground, and circling his possible whereabouts.
Mr O’Ryan is known to frequent the area, particularly in Morwell, Traralgon and Tyers. He has no fixed address. He is also known to the police and police are using that history to try and locate him.
Det Sen Sgt Findlay’s message to Mr O’Ryan is simple.
“I’d encourage him to call us,” he said.
“I’d encourage him to walk into a police station and and give yourself up. Come and see us. We can figure it out, and we’re ready to support and do what we can for Peter. We understand that you’re having some difficulties, and we understand that you know what’s happened.
“We’ll do everything that we can in terms of that support. And that’s what we hope that no one else needs to get hurt.”
Mr O’Ryan was last seen wearing a black and mustard coloured jacket and carrying a black backpack.
Anyone who sees the offender should not approach the man and should immediately contact Triple Zero (000).
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV or a dashcam or has information, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at: www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
