A Virginia Navy installation is on a partial lockdown after a stabbing, with officials searching for the suspect.

The Navy says the stabbing occurred during an argument between two service members outside the Navy Exchange at Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads, Portsmouth Annex. The installation is home to Naval Medical Centre Portsmouth.

The Navy identifies the suspect as Petty Officer 3rd Class Wilbur Harwell. The Navy says he has not been caught.

Captain Michael "Jake" Johansson, commanding officer of Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads, said the victim, who has not been identified, suffered critical injuries.

Officials are searching installation buildings for the suspect.

The annex is home to the nation's first naval medical centre.

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