Boy, 15, charged with manslaughter over death of shop owner in alleged bashing

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.

Hong Hung grocery owner Van Viet Truong, 60, was allegedly attacked as he attempted to stop four teenagers accused of stealing from a clothes shop in Sunshine in Melbourne’s west on Saturday.

Truong was taken to hospital in a critical condition, but police announced he died on Wednesday.

Three boys aged 12, 13 and 15 from Brimbank, a 14-year-old girl from Banyule and a 14-year-old girl from Brimbank were all charged with affray, violent disorder, intentionally cause serious injury and intentionally cause injury.

The 13-year-old boy was exonerated after further investigation, and his charges were dropped.

On Thursday afternoon, the 15-year-old boy had his charges upgraded to include manslaughter.

The remaining children were remanded to appear in a children’s court at a later date.

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CCTV shows Truong chasing the group down Hampshire Road just after 2pm on Saturday.

It’s alleged the youths had stolen items from the nearby Diamond Valley Fashion store.

Thao Ay, who runs a neighbouring shop, said: “Two small girls [allegedly stole] the pants and then the owner, the lady owner, she [followed and said], ‘Hey, hey, hey.’”

Security footage shows the teenagers running from the store.

One unidentified man jumps into try and grab one of the teenagers before Truong runs in from behind and a scuffle ensues.

Julie Tran from Sunshine Business Association said: “He’s really nice, he’s been one of the longest street traders along the strip so he’s very well known.”

The community is demanding a higher police presence in Sunshine.

“Everyone’s on edge, I mean everyone’s scared everyone’s frightening so come out on the streets, walk the streets alone, especially my staff,” Tran said.