Over 250 evacuated after stolen car crashes into Merrylands apartment, ignites fire

More than 250 residents have been evacuated from an apartment complex in Sydney’s southwest after a car slammed into the ground floor and burst into flames.

A unit complex has been evacuated after a vehicle fire in Sydney’s south west. Picture: Mary Ann Alano-Sandoval

More than 250 residents have been evacuated from an apartment complex in Sydney’s southwest after a car slammed into the ground floor and burst into flames.

Police were called to a unit complex on Gladstone Street in Merrylands shortly before 3am following reports of a vehicle fire.

The suspected stolen Toyota Rav4 was found on fire in the lobby of the building, but firefighters stopped the flames from spreading to units above.

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Fire alarms woke up residents inside the complex, forcing them to walk out the fire exit and stand outside until the fire was brought under control.

They have since been allowed to return. There were no reports of any injuries or damage to the unit complex.

About 250 people were evacuated from the unit block. Picture: Mary Ann Alano-Sandoval

Police established a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the incident.

Investigations indicated that the Toyota was reported stolen from Moorebank last Sunday and the fire is being treated as suspicious.

Hundreds were dispersed on the streets. Picture: Mary Ann Alano-Sandoval

The driver and potential passenger remain at large and no one has been arrested.

Anyone who may have information about the matter – or was in the area at the time with any available dashcam/mobile phone footage – is urged to contact Granville Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Do you know more? Message 0481 056 618 or email [e-mail]

Originally published as Over 250 evacuated after stolen car crashes into Merrylands apartment, ignites fire