Victoria Police have issued a statement on behalf of the family of the 14-year-old boy injured during an armed robbery in Mernda last week, which subsequently resulted in the fatal stabbing of a 22-year-old man.
“We are deeply saddened by this heartbreaking loss. He showed extraordinary courage and compassion in risking his life to save our son. Our family will carry his bravery and kindness in our hearts forever. We hold your family in our thoughts and prayers.”
Aidan Becker, an off-duty security guard, died on Friday evening after police allege he intervened when four teenagers attempted to rob the schoolboy just before 6pm at Mernda Railway Station, in Melbourne’s outer north.
Becker, who had been walking home from work at The Alfred Hospital, reportedly escorted the boy away from the station before being followed and attacked with fists, kicks, and an edged weapon.
It is reported that bystanders provided first aid, but Becker was pronounced dead at the scene.
Friends and local residents described him as a “quiet hero” and a “special young man” who would step in to help others without hesitation.
Floral tributes and messages of condolence have continued to be left at the station.
Yarrambat Junior Football Club, where Becker was a former player, shared an Instagram post paying tribute: “Our hearts are incredibly heavy as we share the tragic passing of former player, Aidan Becker. Aidan was the kind of teammate every club hopes for – selfless, team first and always willing to put others before himself. Many of our players, families and supporters at YJFC and his previous clubs had the privilege of sharing the field, the rooms and so many memories with Aidan.”
“His impact reached far beyond the game and the sadness of his loss is being felt deeply across the entire community. We send our love and heartfelt condolences to Aidan’s family, friends and all who knew him. Aidan will always be remembered as a very special young man.”
The Alfred Hospital also issued a statement mourning his loss, describing him as “full of life” and “dedicated” to those around him.
Premier Jacinta Allan announced that the state government’s Violence Reduction Unit would be deployed to Mernda following the incident. The unit will work alongside Victoria Police and the Department of Education to provide community support and reassurance, and to address the root causes of youth crime.
“We created the Violence Reduction Unit for this reason, to work with the community in the aftermath of violence and prevent further trauma.”
Homicide Squad detectives have charged three teenagers aged 16, 17, and 18 with murder and armed robbery in connection with the attack. A fourth 17-year-old allegedly involved remains under police guard in hospital.
The 18-year-old appeared in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Sunday and was remanded in custody to reappear in June.
Police allege the offenders were armed with a machete during the robbery, which involved the theft of a mobile phone and power bank valued at approximately $500.
The attack has prompted concern among local residents. A friend of Becker’s family told 7News taht they had moved to Australia from South Africa seeking a safer life.
“This family left South Africa many years ago seeking something better – a life free from crime, fear and the constant anxiety of unsafe streets.”
Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny defended the state’s efforts to curb violent crime, including last year’s machete amnesty, and noted that new laws allowing young offenders to be tried in adult courts may apply in cases such as this.
Police continue to appeal for witnesses or anyone with footage of the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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