Toowoomba man dies after alleged attack by teens in broad daylight

Four teenagers are expected to have their charges upgraded after the 75-year-old man they allegedly assaulted died from his injuries.

A 75-year-old man who was allegedly attacked by a group of teenagers in broad daylight has died from his injuries.

Elderly Toowoomba man Robert Brown was rushed to hospital in a critical condition after he was allegedly set upon by four teenagers in Toowoomba’s CBD on February 6.

He died from his injuries on Monday, police confirmed.

Toowoomba man Robert Brown has died a week after he was allegedly set upon by four teenagers in the Toowoomba CBD on February 6. Picture: Toowoomba Photographic Society

Police will allege the North Toowoomba man was waiting at a taxi-rank on Margaret St about 5pm on February 6 when he was pushed from behind, causing him to fall to the ground, before his backpack was stolen.

Investigators are appealing for the public’s assistance as they search for the missing backpack. They are urging people who may have relevant dashcam footage from the day to come forward.

Police renew appeals for public assistance to locate a back pack in relation to the alleged grievous bodily harm of a 75-year-old man at Toowoomba on February 6. Picture: Queensland Police

An 18-year-old man, 17-year-old boy and two 16-year-old boys who were originally charged with grievous bodily harm are expected to have their charges upgraded following the results of a post-mortem report.

Queensland Liberal National leader David Crisafulli posted his condolences to Mr Brown’s family on social media on Monday.

“This tragedy should never have taken place,” Mr Crisafulli wrote.

“I send my condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.”

I’m deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Robert Brown.

We travelled to Toowoomba last week and heard about his contribution to the community. pic.twitter.com/SVR4Hg4R2M

— David Crisafulli (@DavidCrisafulli) February 13, 2023

Mr Brown was a longstanding member of the Toowoomba Photographic Society.

In a social media post days after the alleged attack, society member Tryg Helander stated Mr Brown was “a unique storytelling photographer that captured many events and notable happenings around the region”.

A 75-year-old man has died after he was allegedly attacked by teens in Toowoomba. Picture: NewsWire / Sarah Marshall

“Robert has an infectious smile that you can feel in your heart; his enthusiasm for photography, too is inspiring.

“We collectively miss your humble nature, your creativity and that wonderful smile.

“We are all aching inside, as a community. Our elderly deserve better.”

He’d recently been gifted a new camera by members of the society.

Investigations are ongoing.

More to come.