Tributes to Andrew Truman, a Melbourne man killed in a late-night CBD attack after seeing a live band in the pub – as police intensify investigation into senseless attack

An Australian man who was violently attacked on his way home after a night out has lost his fight for life in hospital, sparking an outpouring of tributes from family and friends.

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

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

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

“He was a wonderful and passionate supporter of the LGBTQIAP+ community and a proud gay man,” their statement to the Herald Sun said.

“He didn’t hesitate to take the lead on the dance floor or at karaoke. ‘May we all have at least a little of his taste.’

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

He was also a passionate Western Bulldogs AFL supporter who also played the code.

Friends and family remembered him as a “vibrant” man who loved his football clubs

Wyndham All Abilities Football and Cricket Club said the death of its life member was a “deeply sad day”.

“It is with a heavy heart that I report the sudden death of Andrew ‘Chewie’ Truman,” President Paul Barrett wrote in a statement to members.

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

The Williamstown Seagulls FIDA Football Club also expressed its condolences.

“His enthusiasm for football and especially 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 Mr Truman was “always happy to be himself” and “enjoyed the company of his friends around him”.

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

Truman had reportedly been at the pub before the attack, listening to a band and drinking a glass of milk.

Friends said Mr Truman was “always happy just being himself” and enjoyed singing in the pub

Police released images of a man they want to speak to in connection with Mr Truman’s death

Homicide detectives have released images of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident.

They hope to speak to Todd Menegaldo, who frequently travels around Melbourne’s CBD.

“Investigators have conducted an extensive search over the past few days to locate Menegaldo,” the statement said.

Investigators described Mr. Menegaldo as being approximately 180-185cm tall and slim.

He is also nicknamed “Rooster” and has a black and white cross Staffordshire terrier.

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

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