Cade Lucas
A Seddon man who died in hospital following an assault in the Melbourne CBD last week, has been remembered as vibrant and courageous and a proud member of the LGBTQIAP+ community.
Andrew Truman, 44, was walking on Elizabeth Street from Flinders Street when he was approached by a man and struck to the head on Wednesday, October 9.
He sustained significant head injuries and was taken to hospital in a life-threatening condition, but died over the weekend.
The Homicide Squad is investigating.
On Monday, Mr Truman’s family released a statement expressing their shock at his death.
“Andrew was a vibrant, independent, courageous man who was unafraid to be himself in any context,” the statement read.
“He was a marvellous and fierce supporter of the LGBTQIAP+ community and a proud gay man. He didn’t hesitate to take the lead on the dance floor or in singing karaoke. May we all have at least an ounce of his flavour. Andrew was well loved and cared for and at times a more than passionate Western Bulldogs supporter.”
The family thanked those who stopped to assist Mr Truman following the assault on Wednesday, especially paramedics, police officers and staff at Royal Melbourne Hospital ICU where remained until he died.
Police have released images and CCTV footage of the man suspected of carrying out the assault and are appealing to the public for assistance in locating him.
Todd Menegaldo, who also goes by the nickname ‘Rooster,’ is described as being approximately 180 -185cm tall with a thin build.
He has a black and white crossbreed Staffordshire terrier and is known to frequent the Melbourne CBD, in particular the areas around Elizabeth Street and Flinders Street railway station, as well as the Mildura and Bendigo areas.
He was last seen wearing a zip up purple jumper, dark jeans and a yellow beanie.
Police are warning anyone who sees Mr Menegaldo to not approach him and to instead call triple-0 immediately.
Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
