A 54 year old Railton man is in custody and assisting police with their inquiries following an incident at Railton last night.

Devonport CIB is investigating a disturbance in Foster Street, Railton that occurred around 8pm last night.

The investigation is in the early stages however it appears that two groups of men have had an altercation on the street in the vicinity of 7 Foster Street.

As a result of that altercation two people – a 57 year old man and 20 year old man both of Weegena – received injuries and were conveyed to Launceston General Hospital and Royal Hobart Hospital respectively. Both men continue to be in a serious yet stable condition.

Detective Acting Inspector Richard Chugg said:“This is not a random attack, whilst the investigation is in its early stages I can indicate that all the persons involved were known to each other and it appears the altercation was as the result of an ongoing dispute.”

Detectives are following a specific line of inquiry.

Police will be conducting forensic examinations at the residence and in the main street of Railton for some hours today.

One lane is closed though the road is open to traffic flow in both directions. The public is asked to stay clear of the cordoned area and adhere to any direction Police may give.

Police would like to speak to any person who may have witnessed the altercation.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 (this can be done anonymously) or Tasmania Police on 131 444.