Charges laid after Cessnock woman found dead in home with gunshot wound

A man has been charged with murder after a woman was found dead in a NSW home with an alleged gunshot wound.

Emergency services responded to reports of concerns for welfare at a home on Ellalong Street in Kearsley, East of Cessnock, about 7.30pm on Friday.

First responders found the body of a 39-year-old woman in a scene described to Hunter Valley Police District Commander, Superintendent Steve Laksa, as “horrific and traumatic”, the ABC reports.

She allegedly had a gunshot wound.

A manhunt was launched and on Saturday afternoon, police arrested a 37-year-old man at a sporting club car park in Bellbird.

They also searched a parked Hyundai Tucson and seized a sawn-off shotgun and ammunition.

The man was taken to Cessnock Police Station where he was charged with murder, possess prohibited drug, possess unauthorised prohibited firearm and possess ammunition without holding a licence or permit.

He was refused bail to appear before court on Sunday.

“A post-mortem examination will be conducted in coming days to establish identity and determine cause of death; however, I can confirm a firearm was discharged at the premise,” Laksa said.

He added the death will send shockwaves throughout the regional town, as the young mother had strong ties to the community.

“The community of Cessnock – and the Hunter Valley as a whole – will be affected by the tragic death, but I know there will be support for those involved.”

Anyone with information has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au.

In an emergency, call 000.

Advice and counselling for men concerned about their use of family violence: Men’s Referral Service, 1300 766 491.