Sword-wielding man dies after stand-off with police at Adelaide apartment

A woman has survived a harrowing ordeal in her Adelaide apartment with a sword-wielding man who busted his way inside and sparked a police stand-off that ended with his death.

Darcy Norton and Lynette Cornthwaite had known each other for years, but last night on Metro Parade in Mawson Lakes, something went horribly wrong.

"Police received a number of triple zero calls with information that a man had broken into a unit and was threatening a woman at the address with a sword," Assistant Commissioner Scott Duval said.

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Neighbour Kira said she "heard a bit of screaming and banging" while another local, George, said he opened the door for police.

Officers found Norton wielding a sword and blocking the door.

Capsicum spray and Tasers were used.

"They then disarmed the man of the sword and restrained him and it was then they saw the man had significant lacerations to his arms and his legs," Duval said.

"There was a significant amount of blood in the unit.

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"This was an extremely confronting scene for those attending police."

Norton died in the Royal Adelaide Hospital from what police believe were self-inflicted wounds.

Cornthwaite, 41, was traumatised but alive.

Police said the pair knew each other but were not in a relationship.

Norton's friends spoke highly of the 44-year-old.

"Darcy was Darcy. He'd do anything for you if you needed it you know," one said.

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"He was just in a relationship where he loved a lady and she didn't love him."

Police revealed Norton had come to their attention earlier in the day.

They say at 5.30am they were called to nearby Lightsview amid reports Norton was agitated and threatening people.

He taken to the Royal Adelaide but later released.

A Commissioner's Inquiry will investigate the police response.

"From the information I have I'm satisfied the police interaction with him at that point in time was appropriate," Duval said.

If you or someone you know is in need of support contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue. In the event of an emergency dial Triple Zero (000).