An image taken from the taxi CCTV. Source: Supplied
TWO middle-aged men, one an American tourist, have been brutally bashed during a spat over a taxi in East Melbourne.
The 47-year-old American suffered a broken nose and eye socket in the attack, which happened at a taxi rank outside the Hilton Hotel in Wellington Pde, East Melbourne about 12.40am on September 1.
His 53-year-old companion, Stephen, who did not wish to give his surname, was also left with facial injuries, including painful bone bruising around the eye, and cuts and bruises on his arms and wrists.
The Hampton grandfather said the assault, in the early hours of Father's Day, left him "drenched in blood" and horrified his children.
Melbourne Crime Investigation Unit Sen-Det Duane Hagger said scuffle started when three men, aged roughly in their mid-20s, "tried to commandeer a taxi".
The victims and their friend were standing at the front of the taxi queue and went to enter the taxi when they were stopped by the assailants.
Police released images from the taxi's CCTV.
Two of the three men then seriously assaulted Stephen and the American national, Daniel, punching them in the head and face and kicking them when they fell to the ground.
The three offenders backed off only when another taxi driver stepped in to break up the scuffle.
Sen-Det Hagger said the offenders then jumped in a taxi and drove to an unknown location in Johnston St, Fitzroy.
"The attack was unprovoked," he said.
"It could absolutely have resulted in much more serious consequences."
Victim Stephen suffered facial injuries.
Stephen said his attackers "would have kept going" if the taxi driver hadn't intervened.
The father of three, who works for a US software company, said he and his mates had enjoyed beers and something to eat at the Hilton after the Richmond-Essendon football match.
He said his attackers had "obviously been drinking". He had noticed one of the men being "a bit obnoxious" at the Hilton bar.
Stephen said the assault came out of nowhere, and had made him think twice about taking his grandchildren to the football in the future.
Police have released images taken from the cab's CCTV and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.
One of men is caucasian, about 178cm tall, with light brown or blonde hair and aged in his mid-20s to early-30s. He was wearing a Richmond Football Club polo shirt, blue jeans and grey and white runners.
The second man is believed to be aged in his mid-20s, with a medium built, dark hair, an olive complexion and a beard. He was wearing a blue Hurley-brand jumper, blue jeans and white shoes.
The third man is described as caucasian, with a solid build, light brown or blonde hair and was wearing a white or grey T-shirt, blue jeans and white runners.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppers.com.au.
samantha.landy@news.com.au
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