‘Screaming hysterically’: Manhunt after woman’s body found in Hunter Valley home

A manhunt is underway after a woman’s body was found at a home in the Hunter Valley on Halloween.

Emergency services were called to Ellalong St in Kearsley, near Cessnock, about 7.30pm Friday after reports of a domestic violence incident.

A woman, believed to be 39 years old, was found dead at the home.

Speaking to reporters on Saturday afternoon, Superintendent Steve Laksa said the scene was “quite horrific and traumatic for the police attending”.

Police understand three children were home at the time of the incident, one fleeing the house “seeking support of neighbours”.

“It was a traumatic incident, as you’d imagine,” he said.

“Quite horrific for family members, all involved – her three young children, or two adult children, one young child.”

Neighbour Cecil Campbell told The Daily Telegraph the child was screaming “hysterically” for help.

“It was bloody shocking,” he told the outlet.

“This has never happened here before.”

Superintendent Laksa said police were looking to speak to Christopher James McLoughney, 37, in relation to the incident.

Mr McLoughney is believed to have been in a relationship with the deceased woman at the time of the incident.

He is described as being of caucasian appearance, with very short red hair and about 175cm in height.

Superintendent Laksa warned the man may be armed and in the Cessnok, Lower Hunter or Newcastle area.

“Police would ask that the community members, if they do know this person or have seen this person, to use caution,” he said.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.