Armed police swarm Birkenhead on Auckland’s North Shore after man critically injured in stabbing

“We drove past when [it] just happened. Man completely drenched in blood on the ground, made me so upset to see. Really hope he’s ok but [it] doesn’t look good,” one witness recalled on social media.

A witness said the man looked in terrible condition.

“The policewoman was in a bit of a panic as the ambulance hadn’t arrived at that point.”

A nearby employee told the Herald they understood there had been some kind of stabbing incident on Birkenhead Ave.

“There’s blood outside on the pavement,” they said.

They said they didn’t see the incident take place but there are now “heaps” of armed police on the street and detectives taking photos of the scene.

“We’re just bunkering down at the moment, we’re not allowed to walk on the street,” they said.

Hato Hone St John told the Herald it was notified of an assault incident on Birkenhead Ave at 2.01pm today.

One ambulance and two rapid response vehicles attended. One patient, in a critical condition, was transported to Auckland City Hospital.

In a statement, police said they would like to hear from the public who may have seen an incident unfold.

“Anyone who may have witnessed something taking place at an address or on the street should contact us,” Harrison said.

“We would also like to hear from anyone with information about a vehicle seen fleeing the scene a short time afterward.”

A witness said there are cordons at both ends of Birkenhead Ave, with armed police at both ends.

She said residents are currently being allowed through.

Auckland Transport warns Birkenhead Ave between Onewa Rd and Pupuke Rd is currently closed.

“Avoid this area or expect delays with diversions in place affecting all traffic, including bus services.”

A scene examination will take place this afternoon.

“Our investigation is still in the early stages in determining exactly what has taken place in Birkenhead this afternoon,” Harrison said.

“The public will see an increased presence of our staff in the area, and we appreciate the public’s understanding while our staff carry out their work at the scene.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police on 105 using the reference number P061509544.