Tributes for hero Van Viet Truong: Grocery shop owner dies from injuries suffered in teen group bashing
Victoria Police confirmed this Thursday morning that Mr Truong died of his injuries. A 15-year-old boy has been charged with manslaughter over the death of a good Samaritan shop owner who was allegedly bashed when he came to the aid of another worker.
Van Viet Truong, 60, was hailed as a hero —has died after sustaining “unsurvivable” injuries when he was allegedly bashed by a group of teenagers aged between 12 and 15 on Hampshire Rd, Sushine on Saturday 1/8.
Mr Truong, who owned the Hong Hung Asian Grocery shop —intervened to try to stop a group of teenagers allegedly stealing from a nearby clothing store.
He was transferred to the Royal Melbourne Hospital in a critical condition, where he sadly died on Wednesday afternoon.
Relatives of Mr Truong rushed from Vietnam to be by his bedside this week.
Those close to him described him as “a very friendly and lovely man” and a “hero” who always offered his customers great service in his store.
Family-owned Hong Hung Asian Grocery on Hampshire Road —has been operating for almost 30 years with his wife, but the store has remained closed since the weekend.
“Due to an unexpected family emergency, our shop will be temporarily closed until further notice”, a sign on the door reads.
“Thank you for your kindness and continued support”.
Active in the local business community, Mr Truong had just days ago met with fellow business owners and local Labor MP Sarah Connolly to launch a local business mentoring program.
It is understood Mr Truong had plans to retire in the near future, listing the grocery for sale last year.
Upgraded charge following Sunshine fatal assault
Detectives from the Homicide Squad —have this afternoon charged a 15-year-old boy with manslaughter following a fatal assault in Sunshine on Saturday.
Three boys aged 12, 13 and 15 years-old from the Brimbank area, a 14-year-old girl from the Banyule area and a 14-year-old girl from the Brimbank area were each charged by Melton Crime Investigation Unit with affray, violent disorder, intentionally cause serious injury and intentionally cause injury.
A 15-year-old boy from the Brimbank area has today had his charges upgraded to include manslaughter.
Charges against the 13-year-old boy were withdrawn.
All four will appear at a children’s court at a later date.
Tributes flow for ‘Hero’ Van Viet Truong
In a statement released on Thursday morning, the Sunshine Business Association said it was “deeply saddened by the tragic passing of local business owner, Viet Truong”.
“Viet lost his life after bravely stepping in to help a fellow trader during an alleged theft — a selfless act that reflects the kindness and community spirit he was known for.
“Our deepest condolences are with Viet’s family, friends, staff and fellow traders during this incredibly difficult time. We also extend our support to his business and everyone impacted by this heartbreaking loss”.
The association said Mr Truong was a valued member the community and will be remembered for his generosity, compassion and willingness to help others.
“May he rest in peace”.
Brimbank council on its social media pages said Mr Truong’s death has devastated the entire Brimbank community.
“Viet was a pillar of our community, well known by all for being a generous supporter, a helping hand and a kind friend to his fellow traders, neighbours and customers”, the council said.
“We recognise the immense grief experienced by Viet’s family, friends, fellow traders and the broader Brimbank community and send our deepest sympathies to them all.
“We are lowering our flags to half-mast today [Thursday] as a mark of respect.
“May he rest in peace. He will always be remembered”.
St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman said she was deeply saddened to hear about Mr Truong’s death.
“Van was a long time shopkeeper in Sunshine, for over 40 years”, she said.
“He worked incredibly hard and was a proud supporter, mentor and friend to may other business owners.
“His humour and kindness will be dearly missed.
“My condolences and prayers are with his family, loved ones and our Vietnamese community at this time”.
