Devastated family of WA shooting victim, Terry Czernowski, speak out

The devastated family of father Terry Czernowski said they ‘may never know’ what transpired in the moments before the fatal shooting.

The devastated family of shooting victim and father, Terry Czernowski, have broken their silence after last week’s horrifying incident in a small WA Wheatbelt town.

Mr Czernowski, a father of one in his 40s, was shot dead by co-worker Lachlan Bowles, 25, at Moylan Grain Silos in Kellerberrin, about 205km east of Perth.

The incident occurred at about 8.40am on September 7, with Bowles, who was believed to be wearing a swastika at the time, fleeing the scene shortly after.

Lachlan Bowles fatally shot his co-worker before later turning the gun on himself. Picture: Supplied

Terry Czernowski was killed by Bowles at Moylan Grain Silos in Kellerberrin on September 7. Picture: Supplied

“On behalf of the Czernowski, Sparrow and extended families, we wish to pass on our heartfelt thanks to the WA Police Force for their efforts and continuing investigations into Terry’s tragic passing,” the victim’s family said in a statement.

“The family would like to sincerely thank those who have called, sent flowers and passed on their sympathies.

“This horrible tragedy has had a huge impact on Terry’s family and friends, which only time will heal.”

Mr Czernowski’s family said that while there had been “a lot of speculation” around the circumstances of the incident, it was possible they “may never know the outcome”.

Mr Czernowski’s family said they ‘may never know’ what transpired in the moments before the shooting. Picture: Facebook

After Bowles fled the scene of the shooting, a lengthy police search was sparked, plunging the small town of less than 1000 people into lockdown.

Later that evening, Police Commander of Regional WA, Rod Wilde, told the media Bowles had been located about 20km north of the town.

“He was situated in a field there, and [Tactical Response Group officers] had been talking to him for several hours,” Mr Wilde said.

At least one police car was shot at during the incident, before Bowles is understood to have taken his own life, ending the stand-off.

“Obviously it’s a tragic outcome for everyone involved,” Mr Wilde said.

Moylan Grain Silos in Kellerberrin, about 205km east of Perth. Picture: Google Maps

“We would appreciate the media respecting our privacy by allowing us time to grieve and come to terms with this indescribable crime,” Mr Czernowski’s family said.

“Terry’s family would like to thank all the agencies involved for their efforts and ongoing support to provide closure to this tragedy.”

It is believed Bowles also shot at local farmer, Rob Linto, following the fatal shooting at Moylan Grain Silos.

Bowles also shot at local farmer Rob Linto, who was in his vehicle at the time. Picture: Facebook

Mr Linto had been driving at the time he was shot at, later discovering a bullet hole in the cab of his ute about 5cm from where his head had been.

Kellerberrin residents have since revealed Bowles loved firearms and owned several guns, some of which he could shoot up to 3km, the West Australian reports.

It has also emerged he was a member of the local pistol club and had won shooting awards.

He was carrying a high-powered rifle and a pistol during the rampage.

Originally published as Devastated family of WA shooting victim, Terry Czernowski, speak out