Man dies after alleged assault at Cooks Hill unit block

Police have launched a suspicious death investigation after a man was found critically injured in a home in Newcastle early this morning.

Emergency services were called to a unit block on Darby Street, Cooks Hill, at approximately 3:20 am today (Wednesday, 10 December), following reports of an assault.

Officers attached to the Newcastle City Police District arrived to find a 53-year-old man inside the home with severe injuries.

Despite the efforts of NSW Ambulance paramedics to treat the man, he died at the scene.

Police have confirmed the man’s death is being treated as suspicious.

A crime scene has been established at the unit block, with forensic specialists expected to examine the property throughout the day.

Detectives from the Newcastle City Police District have commenced a full investigation and are being assisted by the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad.

Darby Street is a popular dining and retail strip in Newcastle, and police are likely to be canvassing the area for CCTV footage from nearby businesses.

Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area around 3:00 am, or who has dashcam footage, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.