Tribute to Andrew Truman, Melbourne man killed in late night CBD attack after seeing live band at pub, as police step up investigation into senseless attack

An Australian man who was violently attacked as he returned home after a night out has lost his fight for life in hospital, prompting an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from family and friends.

Andrew Truman, 44, was walking along Elizabeth Street in Melbourne’s CBD when he was confronted and viciously attacked outside McDonald’s last Wednesday evening.

He was taken to hospital with life-threatening head injuries, where he died on Saturday night.

His heartbroken family has remembered Mr. Truman as a “vibrant, independent, courageous man” who was “not afraid to be himself.”

“He was a tremendous and fierce supporter of the LGBTQIAP+ community and a proud gay man,” their statement to the Herald Sun read.

“He didn’t hesitate to take the lead on the dance floor or singing karaoke. May we all taste at least an ounce of its flavor.”

The family also thanked those who stopped to help Mr Truman, paramedics, medical staff and Victorian police officers.

He was also a passionate supporter of the Western Bulldogs AFL and also played the sport.

Andrew Truman, 44, died after being hit in the head in Melbourne’s CBD

Andrew ‘Chewie’ Truman (right) was remembered by friends and family as a ‘lively’ man who enjoyed playing and watching football

Wyndham All Abilities Football and Cricket Club said the death of their life member was a ‘deeply sad day’.

“It is with a heavy heart that I tell you about the sudden passing of Andrew “Chewie” Truman,” President Paul Barrett wrote in a statement to members.

“Chewie was a multiple premiership player and life member of our great club. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Truman family at this time.”

The Williamstown Seagulls FIDA Football Club also offered their condolences.

‘His enthusiasm for football, and especially for the Western Bulldogs, was infectious and he was always ready for a friendly chat. “Go long with the wind,” the club posted.

Family friend Len Sherrott said Truman was “always happy just being himself” and “enjoyed the company of his friends around him.”

Mr Truman visited the Clocks in Flinders pub, where he sang along with musicians as they played.

Before the attack, Truman had been listening to a band in the pub and drinking a glass of milk.

Friends said Truman was ‘always happy just being himself’ and enjoyed singing in the pub

Police have released images of a man they would like to speak to in connection with Truman’s death

Homicide detectives have since released images of a man they want to speak to about the attack.

They hope to speak to Todd Menegaldo, who is visiting Melbourne’s CBD, along with the Mildura and Bendigo regions.

“Detectives have conducted an extensive search over the past several days in an attempt to locate Menegaldo,” the statement said.

Detectives described Mr. Menegaldo as 180-185cm tall and of slim build.

He goes by the nickname ‘Rooster’ and is a black and white Staffordshire terrier cross.

Mr. Menegaldo was last seen wearing a purple zip-up sweater, dark jeans and a yellow beanie.

Anyone who sees Mr Menegaldo is urged not to approach him and to contact Triple-0 or Crime Stoppers immediately.