About midday on Sunday, May 12, emergency services were called to Bingleburra Road, Bingleburra, following reports two men had been shot.

Police have been told two men aged 35 and 28 were involved in an altercation, where the older man sustained a gunshot wound to the chest.

Police said the younger man fled the property and was located nearby, suffering a gunshot wound, which is believed to be self-inflicted.

Both men were treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics, before they were airlifted to John Hunter Hospital, with the younger man reported to be in a critical condition and the older man in a serious but stable condition.

Officers from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District attended the property and established a crime scene, which will be examined by specialist forensic officers.

Police investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident continue. Police have described the incident as domestic-related.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.