Man charged over Townsville 'sword' attack

A man has been charged after a Townsville teenager was stabbed in the neck with what's believed to be a sword.

The 18-year-old victim, who police say could have died if neighbours hadn't rushed to his aid as he stumbled down Cook Street in North Ward, is in a critical condition in Townsville Hospital after undergoing surgery.

The injured man's flatmate, an 18-year-old North Ward man, has now been charged with one count of acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm over Thursday's attack.

He is expected to front the Townsville Magistrates Court on April 15.

Detective Sergeant Brenden Stevenson on Thursday said two swords were found at the property and initial investigations showed the young man was stabbed with a sword "in the neck region".