Transit police are hoping to identify two men following an assault on a route-19 city bound tram last month.
Investigators have been told a 43-year-old man boarded a tram at stop number 33 on Sydney Road in Coburg about 7.10pm on Thursday, 30 July.
While riding the tram, the man observed two unknown men sitting in front of him playing loud music on a black portable speaker.
The victim shook his head and went to exit the tram at stop number 30.
The first unknown man then became verbally aggressive and pushed the victim through the opening tram door.
The victim fell onto Sydney Road and was pushed to the ground a second time by the same unknown man who then fled on foot.
The victim walked south and turned into Moore Street before phoning police for assistance.
While on the phone, the same two men confronted the victim and the first man grabbed his phone and threw it across the road.
He then pushed the victim to the ground and kicked him to the upper body before both men fled on foot.
The victim sustained serious head injuries and now has permanent damage to his neck and spine.
Investigators have released computer-generated images of two men who they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.
The first man is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance, approximately 183cm tall, aged 27 to 35-years and was wearing a skeleton mask.
The second man, who was present during both incidents, is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance, approximately 170 – 180cm tall, with a slim build, aged 30-35-years-old and was wearing a brown scarf around his face.
Investigators are appealing to anyone who might have been on the tram, or who recognises the men, to come forward and speak with police.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
