A 60-year-old Sunshine shopkeeper has died after allegedly being attacked while trying to stop a theft in Melbourne’s west.

Van Viet Truong, the owner of Hong Hung Asian Grocery, stepped in to help during an incident involving a group of teenagers on August 1.

Police say the father of two suffered critical injuries and later died in hospital, leaving the Sunshine community mourning his loss.

Five teenagers were initially charged over the alleged incident, with police now considering whether charges should be upgraded following his death.

Local traders described Mr Truong as a kind and hardworking community member who dedicated decades to serving customers.

The tragedy has sparked renewed calls for stronger community safety measures and action on youth crime across Melbourne’s western suburbs.