Central Wellington stabbing: Stranger saves stabbed man's life

The stabbing occurred outside Wesley Methodist Church in Taranaki St, Wellington, last night. Photo / Google Streetview

A stranger saved the life of a man after he was stabbed in the leg in central Wellington last night, police say.

They now want to hear from anyone who might know more about the person responsible for the stabbing.

A 48-year-old man was seriously injured in the 8.50pm incident, Detective Senior Sergeant Tim Leitch said.

"The victim and his associate became involved in a prolonged argument
with another small group outside the Wesley Methodist church on Taranaki St
that resulted in the victim receiving a serious stab wound to the
leg.

"A passerby provided lifesaving emergency first aid until the arrival of
police and ambulance."

The injured man was taken to hospital and was now recovering in ICU after surgery, Leitch said.

Police wanted to hear from anyone with information which could help their inquiry.

"The male offender left the scene along York St after the incident and police are seeking the help of the public to identify him."

The man is described as being of medium build, about 175 centimetres tall, wearing a dark baseball cap and light-coloured hoodie.

A white Mitsubishi L300 van parked in the church carpark left shortly after the stabbing and it was believed the occupants may have witnessed the incident, Leitch said.

"We ask that they contact us."

Anyone with information should contact police on 105 or, anonymously, via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.