Doctor stabs colleague in meeting - police

A doctor has turned himself in to police after a fellow doctor was stabbed in the chest with a knife at Palmerston North Hospital.

Police confirmed today that an incident happened at a hospital staff meeting yesterday morning but refused to say two doctors were involved.

The stabbing was witnessed by a number of people.

The victim suffered stab wounds to the left chest area which required stitches.

Detective Sergeant Gary Mulligan said today that a man gave himself up at Palmerston North Police Station a short time after the stabbing.

He had been charged with wounding with intent and would appear in Palmerston North District Court tomorrow.

Police had taken possession of a knife.

Mr Mulligan said inquiries were continuing and police were talking to witnesses.

Mid Central Health spokesman Dennis Geddis said in a statement issued yesterday that no patients or public were involved in the incident.

"The matter is in the hands of the police. It is inappropriate to comment further at this time."

- NZPA