Melbourne shop owner dies after stepping in during alleged teen robbery attempt in Sunshine
A Melbourne grocery shop owner who rushed to help a retail worker during an alleged theft outside a Sunshine strip has died from his injuries
A Melbourne grocery shop owner who rushed to help a retail worker during an alleged theft outside a Sunshine strip has died from his injuries days later. Police say the death is likely to deepen the case against the teenagers already charged over the violent confrontation.
Van Viet Truong, 60, was taken to hospital after the incident on Hampshire Road on Saturday afternoon and died on Wednesday. Victoria Police confirmed the death on Thursday. Truong had stepped in after youths allegedly tried to steal items from a nearby store and became involved in a street scuffle over the goods.
Charges expected to be reviewed
Police say five young people were charged after the assault: boys aged 12, 13 and 15, and two 14-year-old girls, one from the Banyule area and one from Brimbank. The charges included affray, violent disorder, intentionally causing serious injury and intentionally causing injury. One 13-year-old boy later had his charges withdrawn after further investigation.
The 15-year-old boy has since had his charges upgraded to include manslaughter following Truong’s death. Detectives said they will consider further upgrades for the other accused as the investigation continues. The youths were remanded to appear before a children’s court at a later date.
A familiar face in Sunshine
Truong was working nearby when he allegedly came to the aid of a shop employee caught up in the confrontation. That decision cost him his life. Quietly, brutally. The case has drawn attention in Melbourne’s west, where Truong had been known as a local grocery owner.
Police have urged anyone who saw the incident, or who has footage, to come forward. They are asking witnesses to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or file a confidential report online.
Detectives are still reviewing evidence from the Sunshine scene and say the next step will depend on what further witness accounts and video show.
