Tributes flow for Morwell man Harry Wright after alleged aggravated burglary

The devastated family of an elderly man who died after an alleged home invasion in Morwell say he would have been “so scared” during the terrifying ordeal.

An elderly “gentle giant” who died during an aggravated burglary in Latrobe Valley was “so excited” to set sail on a dream cruise this weekend.

Morwell man Harry Wright, believed to have been 91, was found critically injured by his daughter after an alleged offender gained access to his Maryvale Rd home about 9.20pm on Thursday night.

It is unclear whether a confrontation occurred and local detectives are awaiting the results of a post-mortem.

Morwell man Harry Wright died after an aggravated burglary. Picture: Nine News

Mr Wright’s death is being investigated by the Homicide Squad.

They arrested a 42-year-old man, of no fixed address, found hiding in the shed of a nearby vacant property.

He was charged with one count of aggravated burglary and will face Latrobe Magistrates’ Court on Monday.

Homes were sealed off with police tape while investigations took place. Picture: Jack Colantuono

Mr Wright’s daughter Karen Cassar said his death was a big loss.

“He would have been so scared, I can’t tell you how scared he would have been,” she said.

“He would not have known how to protect or defend himself.”

Mr Wright’s granddaughter Melissa Ibbs said he was friendly, funny, outgoing and a gentle giant.

The Morwell Bowls Club said Mr Wright was a “real character” of the club.

They said he was due to embark on a cruise on Saturday.

“Very sad news received today that our beloved bowler and friend Harry Wright passed away (Thursday) night, we believe as a result of a home invasion in Morwell,” a statement read.

Mr Wright was described as “a real character”. Picture: Nine News

“Harry was much loved and a real character at our club.

“Harry had been so excited this week anticipating his upcoming cruise.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Harry’s family and friends. RIP Harry.”

A forensics team arrived at the Maryvale Rd home just after 2.30pm to collect evidence. Picture: Jack Colantuono

Mr Wright’s former neighbour said he was always seen walking his two small dogs on Maryvale Rd.

“He was a nice fella. We knew him for 17 years, he used to walk his dogs. We always said hello to each other and we’d see him over at Mid Valley Shopping Centre,” he told the Sunday Herald Sun.

“A real nice fella, we were shocked. I could not believe it.”

Friend Cheryl Reynolds said Mr Wright was a “true gentleman”.

“Such a tragic loss. Harry was a true gentleman and much loved in the bowls community,” she wrote online.

“It is just so hard to believe. He will be truly missed.”

Bernadine Thornton said he was keen for his cruise ship adventure this weekend.

“(I was) talking to Harry last Friday, he was looking forward to his cruise. Loved our chats,” she said.

Locals said they heard “fireworks” and “gunshots” in the area at the time of Mr Wright’s death.