Detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad are appealing for information as part of their investigation into a deliberately lit fire at a South Yarra night club early this morning.
It's believed at least three men attended the Chapel Street venue shortly before 1.50am on Thursday, 21 November.
They have forced their way into the premises and then used accelerant to set it alight, before leaving the area.
The resulting fire was significant and is believed to have caused several millions dollars worth of damage. It is also expected that it will have a significant impact on the area including nearby businesses for some time.
Firefighters attended and the blaze was deemed under control about 3.30am.
Police are treating the fire as suspicious and believe it was a targeted attack, however the exact motivation for the arson is unclear at this time.
Detectives are also yet to establish any links between this fire and other recent fires, however the investigation remains ongoing.
A significant CCTV in the Chapel Street area has taken place today and detectives are keen to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the fire, or who has CCTV or dash-cam footage of the incident.
It appears one of the people involved sustained burn injuries to their hands and arm as a result of lighting the fire.
Police are keen to speak to anyone who may have provided medical treatment to the injured man today or is aware of anyone purchasing supplies to treat a significant burn injury at a venue such as a pharmacy.
No one else was injured as a result of the fire.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or with any further information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Quotes attributable to Detective Inspector Chris Murray, Arson and Explosives Squad:
"The behaviour of these offenders is nothing short of frightening. While I know some people think it's funny to see people light themselves on fire in situations like this, the reality is that we could have had a number of people killed as a result of this fire.
We have said it before and we'll say it again - it is only sheer luck that stands between a fire that damages a property and a fire that kills dozens of people. Fire is absolutely uncontrollable and the sheer recklessness of this offending is just abhorrent.
"Someone will eventually die from these mindless arsonists who give no thought to the deadly consequences of their actions.
"Businesses and livelihoods are being destroyed, landlords' insurance premiums are skyrocketing due to these lunatic arsonists that are getting paid pittance to commit these crimes that will more than likely kill some innocent person sooner or later.
"Someone out there will know who is responsible for this fire and I am urging them to come forward and speak to police or contact Crime Stoppers."
