Two teenage boys and an 18-year-old have been charged over the death of a man who had allegedly stepped in to protect a boy from a group attack in Melbourne’s outer north.
Police have been told a 22-year-old off-duty security guard was walking through Mernda Railway Station on his way home from work about 5:50pm on Friday when he saw a 14-year-old boy being assaulted by four males who were allegedly trying to rob him.
It’s alleged he walked the teenage boy out of the station but was followed by the group who then turned on him, punching, kicking and attacking him with an edged weapon.
Several bystanders performed first aid on the 22-year-old until paramedics arrived but he died at the scene.
Mernda Railway Station was cordoned off on Friday night as police examined the scene. (ABC News)
Homicide Squad detectives arrested a 16-year-old, two 17-year-olds and an 18-year-old man nearby.
The 16-year-old and one of the 17-year-olds have been charged with murder and armed robbery.
They will appear at a children’s court at a later date.
The 18-year-old from Mill Park has also been charged with murder and armed robbery and will appear in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Sunday.
The second 17-year-old is under police guard in hospital and is yet to be interviewed.
The Homicide Squad joined investigating officers at Mernda Station on Friday night. (ABC News)
Police continued to appeal for anyone with footage or who witnessed the incident during the busy evening peak at the railway station to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.