Firebugs torched six cars outside four homes across suburban Melbourne early on Thursday morning in the fourth consecutive night of arson attacks.
Police were called to fires at two separate properties in Reservoir, in Melbourne’s north, that investigators believe are linked attacks.
Around 1.55am, emergency services were called to the first home on Pallant Avenue after reports two cars had been set alight.
Within 20 minutes, they received reports about a second nearby car fire at an address on Boldrewood Parade.
Police said there were no injuries, but the cars were completely destroyed.
“Crime scenes have been established and the investigation into the circumstances of the incidents is ongoing,” police said in a statement. “At this stage, investigators believe the fires are linked.”
About 3.45am, crews in Melbourne’s south-east were called to a home on Burrapike Avenue in Springvale for a fifth car fire.
Eight people were inside the home at the time, but were uninjured. Police said the car parked outside the home was destroyed, with the home also sustaining minor damage.
One of the residents of the Springvale home told ABC radio Melbourne they woke to the sounds of popping and loud banging.
A neighbour at the scene said he was woken by the commotion and heard the family running out of their home.
“I could see the fire rising,” he told the ABC. “I’m a bit scared because the fire could catch the next door properties.”
Just over an hour later, emergency services were called to another car fire in Melbourne’s south-east, on Kuranda Crescent in Oakleigh East.
Police said a car in the driveway of the home had also been destroyed, and four people inside escaped without injury.
Investigations into all four fires are continuing.
Anyone who witnessed either of the incidents, has dashcam or CCTV footage or anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
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