The victim of a violent assault and attempted robbery at Werribee last month says the attack in broad daylight has made him think twice about walking the streets alone.
About 2pm on March 31, Greg Rottura parked his car and was walking towards the newsagency in Station Place when he was approached by a man who made demands for money.
“I said to him [the attacker], ‘I don’t even know you’, but he said, ‘I want some money’,” Mr Rottura recalled. “I then told him to get out of my way and he punched me in the lungs and in the face.”
The 72-year-old Werribee resident was knocked to the ground and suffered bruising and cuts as his attacker fled empty-handed down a nearby alley.
Several bystanders came to Mr Rottura’s aid.
“A nice lady with three children rang police and the ambulance and another lady brought over a bottle of water and helped me to my feet,” he said.
“What would make somebody want to hurt an old man just going about his business? I had a restaurant in Watton Street for 20 years and never had any trouble.
“I feel angry and upset, but you shouldn’t have to be scared.”
His attacker, described as Caucasian and aged in his mid to late 20s, was wearing a black T-shirt and black pants at the time.
An image of the man police want to speak to.
Can you help?
Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
