A tight-knit community in Melbourne's north-east is in shock after a well-known local man was critically injured while trying to prevent his car from being stolen outside his home.

Emergency services were called to Blackwood Parade in Heidelberg West around 7:30 pm on Saturday following reports that a 68-year-old man had been struck by a vehicle. According to investigators, the victim—known locally as George—was attempting to stop an unknown offender from taking his car when he was run over.

Neighbours Heroically Administer CPR

Local resident Kim Tripitiris recalled the horrifying moment she heard screaming outside and rushed onto the street, where she found her neighbour severely injured in his driveway.

With precious minutes ticking by before paramedics arrived, Ms Tripitiris and her partner jumped into action to perform life-saving CPR on George when his breathing stopped.

"He did pass away for a couple of minutes, and my partner started pumping his chest," Ms Tripitiris said. "He came back, thank God. But it just felt like forever waiting for the ambulance."

Describing George as an "adored" member of the neighbourhood who loved cars and was always down-to-earth, Ms Tripitiris added that the entire street has been left deeply traumatised by the brutal incident.

Manhunt Underway for Car Thief

The offender fled the scene in the victim's vehicle, leaving George with life-threatening injuries. He was rushed to a local hospital, where he remains in critical condition fighting for his life.

Detectives from the Major Collision Investigation Unit attended the scene to collect evidence and speak with witnesses. As of Sunday morning, no arrests have been made, and the stolen vehicle has yet to be recovered.

Authorities are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident, noticed suspicious activity around Blackwood Parade on Saturday evening, or captured dash-camera footage in the area to contact Crime Stoppers immediately on 1800 333 000.