Man allegedly wielding a meat cleaver in broad daylight on busy city street in Newcastle is shot by police

A man wielding a meat cleaver on a busy city street in broad daylight has been shot by police. 

About 4.10pm police were called to Hanbury Street in Newcastle following a concern for welfare call.

‘Police attached to Newcastle City Police District attended when a man ran from a unit block towards police allegedly armed with a meat cleaver,’ a spokesperson for NSW police said. 

‘A Taser was deployed which was unsuccessful, and the man was shot by police.’

Officers immediately rendered first aid to the man before NSW ambulance paramedics arrived. 

The man – believed to be aged in his 40s – was taken John Hunter Hospital in a serious condition.

There were no other reports of injuries.

‘A critical incident investigation team will now investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident,’ the spokesperson added. 

‘The investigation is also subject to an independent review.’

About 4.10pm police were called to Hanbury Street in Newcastle following a concern for welfare call (stock image)

More to come.