Witnesses sought to solve Noojee death
Homicide Squad detectives are continuing investigations into the death of a Springvale man at Noojee on June 21.
Detectives were in Noojee last Tuesday launching a public appeal for information into the death of the 49-year-old man who was camping at Toorongo Falls campground before his death.
Investigators said David Crouch travelled with his dog to the Toorongo Falls campground on June 15 and intended to camp there for a period of time.
It is believed up to 25 groups of people were camped at the site on Friday, June 19.
Witnesses told police a significant number of campers had left the site on Saturday and by Saturday afternoon, about 12 camp sites remained.
Investigators believe the Springvale man was assaulted by other campers sometime late on Friday evening or early Saturday morning following an altercation, possibly relating to the man’s dog.
It is believed this assault was witnessed by a number of people.
At about 9pm on Saturday, June 20, the victim and a Langwarrin man drove to a hotel in Noojee.
Investigators said staff at the hotel were concerned for the man’s condition and sought medical assistance. However, the man refused the assistance and the pair left the hotel and returned to the campsite.
The pair returned to the hotel at 9pm on Sunday, June 21 to seek medical assistance after Mr Crouch became disorientated.
Detectives said staff called for an ambulance and paramedics arrived shortly. Mr Crouch died on the way to hospital.
Detective Inspector Tim Day said the assault appeared to be unprovoked and police have information that it was witnessed by a number of people.
“We know that people witnessed the incident and those people will be able to assist us in identifying those responsible for the assault.
“We are asking for anyone who camped at the Toorongo Falls campground between Monday the 15 June and Monday 22 June 2020 to please contact Crime Stoppers and register your details,” he said.