MEDIA ADVISORY: Double stabbing near Cessnock, NSW

Police will address the media this morning after two men were stabbed near Cessnock overnight.

About 1.50am (Friday 5 March 2021), emergency services were called to a home on Shalistan Street, Cliftleigh, about 20km north-east of Cessnock, following reports two men were fighting and had been stabbed.

On arrival, police found a 23-year-old man with stab wounds to the chest and head. He was treated at the scene before being taken to John Hunter Hospital. He remains in a stable condition.

Police were then told a second man left the scene prior to their arrival.

A short time later, police were notified when the 27-year-old man attended Maitland Hospital suffering stab wounds to the chest and neck. He was later taken to John Hunter Hospital where he is reported to be in a critical condition.

Officers from Hunter Valley Police District established a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

WHEN: 11am TODAY (Friday 5 March 2021)

WHERE: Outside Cessnock Police Station

New entrance to station on Cumberland Street

**parking is limited near the station**

WHO: Detective Inspector Matt Zimmer

Hunter Valley Police District Crime Manager

/Public Release. View in full here.