PLEASE NOTE: 'keavall' is pronounced to rhyme with 'evil'
Police investigating the death of a woman near Cessnock overnight are seeking to speak with a man they believe can assist with inquiries.
Emergency services were called to a home on Ellalong Street, Kearsley, just after 7.30pm (Friday 31 October 2025), responding to reports of a domestic violence-related incident.
Inside the house police located the body of a woman.
Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District established a crime scene overnight, which is being examined by specialist forensic officers.
Local detectives, assisted by State Crime Command's Homicide Squad, have established Strike Force Keavall to investigate the circumstances surrounding the woman's death.
Hunter Valley Police District Commander, Superintendent Steve Laksa, said detectives wish to speak with 37-year-old Christopher James McLoughney, as they believe he has information that may assist investigators.
"Based on information provided to investigators, we are warning anyone who sees this man to not approach him but to call Triple Zero (000) immediately," Supt Laksa said.
"He is described as being of Caucasian appearance with short red hair, a thin build and 175cm to 178cm tall. It's not known what he is wearing; however, he may be in possession of a firearm.
"It's believed he may be driving a 2008-model black Hyundai Tuscon SUV with NSW registration, DK75HP.
"It is very important that people do not approach this man.
"We are appealing to anyone with information about this man's whereabouts contact Cessnock Police or Crime Stoppers as soon as possible as we believe he may have information crucial to the investigation," he said.
Supt Laksa said a child, who is believed to have lived at the home, is being cared for by his extended family.
"At this time, investigators are investigating this as a domestic and family violence-related incident.
"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 premises."
Supt Laksa said the incident will have a significant impact on the families of those involved.
"The community of Cessnock – and the Hunter Valley as a whole – will be affected by the tragic death of this young mother, but I know there will be support for those involved.
"I appeal to anyone in the area who has information which can assist investigators to call police immediately," Supt Laksa said.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
