Man charged with murder over death of police officer's son

A man has been charged with murder after another man was found with stab wounds in Adelaide's CBD.

Emergency services found Lewis Parkin with serious injuries to his chest outside of a backpackers accommodation complex on Hindley Street about 8pm, following reports of a stabbing.

The party strip was shut down and traffic was diverted while paramedics worked frantically on the 23-year-old, who is the son of a serving police officer.

READ MORE: Man arrested after 15-year-old found dead in Sydney bushland

He was rushed the Royal Adelaide Hospital but he died a short time later.

SA Police alleged the accused, who was believed to be known to the victim, left the scene before they arrived.

A 42-year-old man was found shortly after, near the River Torrens. He since been charged with murder and refused bail.

It is understood a fight broke out in the hallway near the kitchen inside the backpacker's about 8pm last night, before escalating, leaving a trail of blood through the building.

READ MORE: 'Relieved to be found': Fishing boat discovers man who fell off cargo ship

As police gathered evidence at the scene today, other residents of the accommodation were in disbelief after the loss of their friend.

"Just shocked, I didn't really know what to do," Parkin's friend Finlay Weth said.

"He's the one person I've been friends with while I've been over here."

Another friend, Aurelia Pozzi, paid tribute to Parkin following the news of his death.

"Lewis, rest in peace, you're a good guy and we'll miss you," Pozzi said.

The accused will appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Monday 11 November.