Police have closed a section of Crown Street in Wollongong on Sunday, after reports of a violent brawl involving a dozen people in the early hours of the morning.
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Lower East Cafe was one of the businesses affected and unable to open at their usual time of 8am. They were told it could be a couple of hours before they could trade.
"We've been advised that due to an unfortunate incident on Crown St, we're unable to open at our usual time today," staff posted on their Facebook page.
"We believe it will be a couple of hours until the street is open for access + will keep you posted."
Wollongong Duty Officer Chief Inspector Olsen confirmed the "eastern end" of Crown Street between Kembla and Corrimal Streets was being canvassed by crime scene investigators.
He said the road would be blocked until at least 9.30am.
Emergency services received multiple calls just after 3:15am with reports up to a dozen men were brawling on the street.
Chief Inspector Olsen confirmed a 36-year-old man was "king hit" and quite seriously injured, and was found lying unconscious on the ground with a bloody head injury.
A second man, aged 34, was also assaulted, suffering facial injuries.
Both men were treated by NSW Ambulance Paramedics and taken to Wollongong Hospital where the older man remains in a critical condition.
Police were told two men were fighting when the injured man attempted to intervene and was reportedly punched in the head, falling to the ground unconscious.
The men involved have been described as being of Maori/Pacific Islander appearance.
One being of a large build, wearing a green jacket, white shirt, and denim jeans. Another wearing a dark t-shirt, denim jeans, and a dark cap.
Chief Inspector Olsen has asked any witnesses to the incident to come forward and speak with police.
MORE TO COME ....