A quiet afternoon at a Lismore park turned to tragedy when a suspected violent brawl left one man dead and another fighting for his life in what police are calling a devastating incident.
Emergency services rushed to the scene near Lismore Showground on Tuesday afternoon after receiving multiple reports of a serious assault in progress. What they discovered sent shockwaves through the Northern Rivers community.
Critical Injuries at Park Scene
Paramedics arrived to find two men with severe injuries at the park on Dawson Street around 4:30 PM. Despite immediate medical intervention, one man succumbed to his wounds at the scene, while the other was rushed to Lismore Base Hospital in critical condition.
"This is a tragic outcome from what appears to be a violent altercation," said a NSW Police spokesperson. "Our thoughts are with the families affected by this devastating incident."
Police Launch Major Investigation
Richmond Police District have established a crime scene and launched a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal brawl. Forensic specialists have been combing the area for evidence while detectives work to piece together the events that led to the tragedy.
Local residents expressed shock at the violence occurring in what's normally considered a peaceful community space. "You don't expect this kind of thing to happen in our neighbourhood," said one nearby resident who wished to remain anonymous.
Community in Mourning
The Dawson Street area remained cordoned off throughout Tuesday evening as police continued their investigations. Support services are being offered to witnesses and those affected by the traumatic event.
Police are urging anyone with information about the incident or who may have witnessed the altercation to come forward immediately as they work to determine what triggered the deadly confrontation.
