Drug ice has 'ruined' McKell Avenue in Wagga, residents say

A police operation at McKell Avenue on Wednesday capped off a big year for authorities, who have in the past 12 months redoubled efforts to counter the rising social toll the drug has inflicted on Riverina communities.

Police swarmed the troubled Wagga suburb about noon after reports of gunfire. 

Putting the street in lockdown, they surrounded a property as two of the home’s occupants sought refuge with neighbours.

But the suspect – believed to be a 26-year-old man – had already fled the scene and was still at large late afternoon. The incident was being treated as an aggravated break and enter. 

And while police were not in a position to confirm whether shots were fired, resident Graham Traynor said “you know the difference between fire crackers and gunshots”.

Mr Traynor lives next door to the property that was surrounded by police with his partner and children.

“The sad part about it is this is nothing new,” he said.

“I have children that live here; I worry about their safety all the time. It’s a scary thing to think these people are still out there.”

Multiple residents told the Advertiser they believed there were firearms on the street linked to drug dealers.

“Ice has taken over,” resident of 17 years Ken Hoffman said. 

“Ice has got everyone – it’s ruined this street and no one seems to be listening.”

Police will continue their investigations. Anyone with information should phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.