Newcastle Police have launched a critical incident investigation after an arrest at Charlestown Square resulted in a man being rushed to the John Hunter Hospital.
A 22-year-old man was approached by Police at a liquor store within the Square around 1pm, who came to talk to him about alleged domestic violence offences.
However the situation quickly escalated as the young man drew a knife and stabbed himself repeatedly.
Officers tasered the man in an attempt to prevent more self-harm, but he lost consciousness and was transported to the John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition.
The Canberra Street entrance to Charlestown Square remains closed, however the centre itself is open for business.
