WILLIAMSTOWN, VIC. — At 3.38am, Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) firefighters responded to an incident at a shop on Nelson Place after callers to Triple Zero (000) reported a building fire.
Firefighters arrived on scene to find the front of the shop “well involved in fire.”
FRV firefighters, wearing breathing apparatus, searched and found no one in the residence above the shop. Crews evacuated two people to safety from a neighbouring back property.
The fire was deemed under control in 50 minutes.
Extensive fire damage occurred to the shop, with smoke damage to the upper-level residence.
A crime scene has been established, and an arson chemist is expected to attend later this morning to investigate suspicious circumstances.
FRV firefighters will be in attendance into the morning to continue fire duties, including the extinguishment of hot spots.
Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or www.crimestopersvic.com.au.
