Fires In Richmond, Patterson Lakes And Port Melbourne

Police and emergency services were kept busy overnight attending to several fires across Melbourne.

In the first incident officers were called to an apartment block in Clark Street Richmond following reports of a unit fire about 9.15pm.

It appears a resident from one of the units set fire to his own apartment which in turn damaged four other units.

The 37-year-old was arrested at the scene and will be interviewed in relation to the alleged arson.

Luckily no one else was injured however several people were displaced from their homes.

In the second incident emergency services were called to a fire at a disused retirement village in Gladesville Boulevard in Patterson Lakes about 1.20am.

The fire has been deemed suspicious and a crime scene guard placed on the property.

Police were also called out to a fire in Bay Street, Port Melbourne following reports a car had crashed into a hair salon just after 1.30am.

The car and shop have been totally destroyed by fire.

A resident living above the store was able to self-evacuate and was not injured. While two small children from a neighbouring residence were taken to hospital for observation from possible smoke inhalation.

Police have been told a person was seen running from the scene.

The fire is being treated as suspicious and a crime scene has been established.

Investigators will look at any possible links to other recent fires.

It is expected an arson chemist and detectives will attend the multiple scenes this morning.

Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incidents or with information to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or log onto www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

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