A Wellington shop owner, severely injured in a brutal assault last year, has been left with no choice but to close his store after spending more than a year in hospital, The New Zealand Herald reported.
Kevin Ren, the owner of The Mighty Dollar Shop in Porirua, was attacked outside his store after following a suspected shoplifter in October 2023. Ren had noticed someone leaving the store and believed they had stolen something. However, he was violently assaulted when he confronted the individual outside.
Rushed to the hospital in critical condition, Ren underwent extensive treatment, including life-saving neurosurgery and critical care in Wellington Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit. His family shared via a Givealittle page that Ren endured numerous complications during his recovery.
“He survived but has life-altering ongoing physical and cognitive deficits which he is working to overcome,” the family wrote.
The person responsible for the attack, a 15-year-old boy, was referred to Youth Services.
In an emotional update this week, Ren’s family shared that, despite over a year of recovery, he is still unable to return to work. As a result, they have made the difficult decision to close The Mighty Dollar Shop at the end of the month.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of our family-owned store. After a brutal attack on our father, we’ve fought to keep our doors open for the past year,” they posted online. “Unfortunately, due to the severity of his injuries, he is unable to return to work. We have made the difficult decision to close at the end of the month. It has been an honour to serve and connect with the wonderful community in Porirua, and we are truly grateful for your support. Please visit us and take advantage of our final sale before we close. Thank you for everything.”
The Givealittle page, which raised over $5000 to assist the family, also highlighted the profound impact the assault had on their lives.
“This senseless assault has been devastating and has affected every aspect of his and his family’s lives,” the post stated. “Their future is forever changed. His planned future will never be. While he is working hard for every little step towards recovery, his wife is providing support for him and working extra to save their business.”
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