Man dies after assault in Charlestown shopping centre carpark, 53-year-old arrested

video will be posted here at 4:30pm

newy.com.au – A man has died after an alleged assault about 9.50am on Wednesday in the carpark on the Pacific Highway at Charlestown, with police later arresting a 53-year-old man who attended Newcastle City Police Station shortly after 1pm.

Officers from Lake Macquarie Police District established a crime scene and launched an investigation into the suspicious death, appealing for anyone in the area with dashcam or mobile phone footage to come forward. The death prompted a significant police operation in Charlestown’s CBD and investigators are working to piece together exactly what occurred.

Police said emergency services responded to reports a man had been assaulted in the carpark and that he died prior to their arrival; his identity had not yet been confirmed on Wednesday afternoon. They said a man was seen running south along the Pacific Highway shortly after the incident. “Police will address the media later today with further information,” NSW Police stated in an update issued at 1.43pm (AEST).

As of the last police update, no charges had been laid. The arrested man remained in custody as inquiries continued.

News Corp publications reported the case as a fatal stabbing, saying the victim, believed to be in his 60s, suffered multiple wounds to the chest; police have not publicly confirmed a cause of death. The same reports said PolAir provided aerial support while detectives canvassed the carpark, including searching bins and recording number plates.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Belmont Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000; information can also be provided via the Crime Stoppers website and will be treated confidentially.

This page will be updated at 4:30pm today with more information.