Slain grocer's safety fear revealed as teen cleared

A 13-year-old boy has been cleared of charges in the fatal bashing of beloved grocery store owner Van Viet Truong, who had previously raised safety concerns. Truong, 60, died after attempting to save a fellow retailer allegedly under attack by a group of youths in Sunshine, western Melbourne. Four other youths remain before the court.

Truong had expressed his safety concerns months prior to his death. A 15-year-old boy has been remanded in youth detention on a manslaughter charge for dragging Truong to the ground. Two girls, aged 14, have been released on bail. A community safety response and increased advocacy were supported by Brimbank councillors in the wake of the tragedy.