A Melbourne’s west community is mourning the death of Sunshine grocery store owner Van Viet Truong, 60, who died days after he was allegedly assaulted while coming to the aid of another retail worker during an attempted robbery.
Victoria Police confirmed Mr Truong died from his injuries after the alleged attack on Hampshire Road, Sunshine, on Saturday, August 1, 2026. Police allege Mr Truong intervened after a group of youths attempted to rob a nearby store before he was seriously injured.
Mr Truong, who owned Hong Hung Asian Grocery with his wife for almost 30 years, was remembered by family, customers and local traders as a hardworking and generous member of the Sunshine community.
Relatives travelled from Vietnam this week to be by Mr Truong’s side before his death. Those close to him described him as “a very friendly and lovely man” and a hero who always provided excellent service to customers at his store.
The grocery store has remained closed since the weekend following the incident.
Five teenagers were charged over the alleged attack. Two boys, aged 12 and 15, and two girls, both aged 14, have been charged with affray, violent disorder, intentionally causing serious injury and intentionally causing injury.
The 15-year-old boy has also been charged with manslaughter and remains in custody.
Four of the teenagers charged over the incident have since been granted bail and released, after prosecutors did not oppose their release in the Children’s Court. The group includes a 12-year-old boy, a 13-year-old boy and two 14-year-old girls. A 13-year-old boy who was initially charged alongside the group later had his charges withdrawn.
Victoria Police Acting Commander for the north-west metro region, Troy Papworth, said Mr Truong’s death was a “terrible tragedy”.
He said it was likely charges related to the incident would be upgraded because the “status of the case” had changed.
“We can’t talk too much about that at the moment because it is an ongoing investigation,” he said.
“We’re committed to working with the community out there in Sunshine, and we’ve got extra patrols out there in Hampshire Road at the moment, working with the community and traders.”
The death of Mr Truong has prompted an outpouring of grief from the local community, with residents and business owners mourning the loss of a man described as someone who stepped forward to help others.
The incident has also renewed concerns among traders about safety around local businesses and the risks faced by people who intervene during violent situations.
Police investigations into the alleged assault remain ongoing, with the matter expected to continue through the courts. All charges against the teenagers remain allegations and have not been proven in court.
