GLADSTONE PARK, VIC. — Seven people have escaped a suspected arson attack at a home in Melbourne’s north, police say.
Emergency services were called to North Circular Road in Gladstone Park at 4:19am this morning following reports of a property engulfed in flames.
“Three adults and four children were able to self-evacuate and were lucky to escape injury,” police said.
Officers said they found a jerry can at the scene and were told that loud bangs had been heard just before the blaze took hold.
A crime scene has been established, and an arson chemist, along with detectives, is expected to attend the scene throughout the day.
Police will investigate whether the fire is linked to any other recent incidents.
Officers are also investigating a suspicious fire in nearby Airport West that started shortly before 10pm on Sunday.
Police say the unoccupied unit was destroyed by fire, while a neighbouring unit was smoke-damaged.
Fire crews were also called to a fire at a double-storey unit in O’Connor Street, Reservoir, shortly before midnight.
An FRV spokesperson said the cause of the fire is unknown, but it appears to have started in the garage and spread to the house.
Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
