Officers were called to Links Drive just after midnight following reports of a brawl between a group of more than 20 males.

It is understood Mr Maynard, 21, was shot once in the upper body during the altercation.

Police say a car containing Mr Maynard and four others had been driving through Links Drive when someone from a nearby group of males threw an iron bar at the vehicle.

The driver and four passengers have apparently gotten out of the vehicle and confronted the group of roughly 20 men, when Mr Maynard was shot.It is understood the smaller group then has fled the scene in the car, driving Mr Maynard to a nearby ambulance station where he was then taken to John Hunter Hospital.

He was pronounced dead on arrival.

Officers could be seen scouring the scene of the crime this morning, collecting what appeared to be a machete and a long, thin knife.

Rocks were also strewn through the street.

Police have set up a Strike Force Polden, lead by homicide detectives, to investigate the shooting and the possibility that there was an altercation prior to the brawl that lead to Mr Maynard’s death.

However Port Stephens crime manager Peter Fox said there was no need to expect retaliation.

‘‘At this stage we are not sure if there was some kind of altercation between the males earlier in the night but that is something we are finding out now,’’ he said.

‘‘We are talking with a number of people but obviously anyone who knows anything should contact either Port Stephens police or Crime Stoppers.’’

He said a reward of $1000 may be available to anyone with information that leads to a conviction.

Port Stephens detectives can be contacted on 4983 0599, alternatively information can be left anonymously at Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

More to come.