MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA: Police in Victoria are searching for a 48-year-old man accused of carrying out a violent axe attack on his elderly parents and his brother in the Gippsland town of Tyers.

The incident occurred at a residential property on Cowies Road at about midday on Saturday. Police allege that an argument broke out before the suspect attacked his 76-year-old father, his 74-year-old mother and his 47-year-old brother.

All three victims suffered serious injuries and were taken to hospital. Two of the victims were airlifted to a Melbourne hospital for urgent treatment, while the woman was also transported for medical care. Authorities said on Sunday that all three remained in a critical but stable condition.

Police have identified the alleged attacker as Peter O’Ryan and issued a warrant for his arrest. Investigators believe he left the property on foot after the incident and may still be carrying a weapon.

Authorities have warned members of the public not to approach him if they see him. Police believe he may be armed and have deployed significant resources to locate him, including officers searching properties and surrounding rural areas.

A helicopter has also been involved in the search as investigators attempt to track his movements around Tyers, Morwell and Traralgon.

Detectives said the suspect was known to the victims and that the attack appeared to have followed an argument. However, investigators are still working to establish the exact circumstances that led to the violence.

The severity of the injuries has heightened concern in the local community. Police described the alleged incident as an extremely serious case and urged residents to remain alert while the search continues.

Officers are examining the property where the attack allegedly occurred and are working to establish a detailed timeline of events. Investigators are also expected to speak with witnesses and gather further evidence as they attempt to locate the suspect.

Police have appealed to anyone who sees O’Ryan to immediately contact emergency services rather than attempting to intervene. Authorities have also encouraged the suspect himself to surrender at a police station so the investigation can proceed through the legal system.

The search remained active as police continued efforts to locate the accused man and prevent any further risk to members of the public.