A manhunt is underway for two suspects following the tragic shooting death of 23-year-old Chloe Jade Mason, who was killed in the early hours of Sunday morning on Railway Parade, Caboolture, north of Brisbane. Police have described the incident as a targeted attack, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding her death.
According to Detective Inspector David Harbison, officers were called to the scene shortly after midnight where they found Mason lying unconscious on the footpath. Despite attempts to revive her, she was declared dead at the scene. "The public nature of this crime is alarming," he said, emphasizing the need for information from the community.
Initial investigations suggest Mason was chased down the suburban street by two men and shot during the assault. Witnesses reported hearing three to four gunshots followed by what sounded like whimpering. One neighbor described the scene as "very scary," recounting the chaos of the night.
Detectives believe up to four shots were fired, resulting in at least one fatal wound. Harbison noted, "This is not believed to be a random attack; we suspect she knew the assailants." No arrests have been made, and the police are working with limited details as the incident occurred under the cover of darkness.
Mason's family has been left heartbroken by her untimely death, just days before Christmas. Her sister, Hannah McKone, expressed their grief: "Chloe was our beautiful sister, we love her deeply, and her loss is hard to come to terms with, especially close to the holidays." Family and friends have taken to social media to pay tribute, describing her as strong, beautiful, and a devoted aunt.
Friends described their memories of Mason, recalling her as "so young and so beautiful." One friend wrote, "Rest in Paradise, my sister. Love you lots." These heartfelt tributes reflect the deep impact Mason had on those around her.
The police have issued public appeals for any witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from Railway Parade between 11:40 PM and the time of the shooting to come forward. Harbison urged community members to assist investigators, saying, "There's people out there who know who these people are, so do the right thing and come forward. A young 23-year-old has lost her life under tragic circumstances."
A crime scene has been established, and specialist homicide detectives are now part of the investigation team, designated as Operation Whiskey Cortland. The investigation aims to bring closure for Mason’s family and restore safety to the community. Police remain uncertain about the motive of the attack or why Mason was with the men involved.
Chloe Jade Mason is remembered not only for her vivacious spirit but also as someone who changed the lives of those she loved. Her family’s call for support has unveiled the financial struggles they are facing due to the circumstances of her passing. A GoFundMe has been created to help cover her funeral costs, with family members expressing gratitude for any assistance provided.
While friends and family grapple with their loss, the local community is also coming together, offering condolences and reminiscences of the beautiful young woman they knew. One friend shared, "You were there in some of my darkest times; I’ll always miss you, CeeJay. Fly high and know you won’t be forgotten by anyone. Love you always, my sister."
The police continue to stress the importance of collaboration with the public to aid their investigation. "We have no leads on those involved, and without the community's help, our task may become quite difficult," Harbison reiterated. Investigators are hopeful of breaking the case with renewed information, and the family holds onto hope for justice for Chloe.
For now, the community mourns the loss of Chloe Jade Mason, as police continue to search for her attackers and strive to understand the chaotic events leading to her death.
