Police release CCTV of brazen arson attack at Churchill Hotel in the Latrobe Valley
Detectives have released CCTV of a brazen arson attack at the Churchill Hotel in which two men were seen hacking at it with an axe before using a blowtorch to set it alight.
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Two brazen arsonists used a blowtorch and an axe to set fire to a beloved Gippsland pub.
Police have released CCTV footage of the early-morning inferno at the Churchill Hotel in May with hopes the public can identify the arson crew.
The hooded men were seen arriving with two jerry cans, a blowtorch and a huge axe about 5am on May 13 before the pub was set alight.
One of the men swung an axe into the front door nearly 10 times while his co-offender poured petrol through the Balfour Place establishment.
Both men then entered the business with jerry cans before setting it alight with the blowtorch.
The building immediately erupted in flames and the two hooded men fled the scene in a vehicle.
It is not known why the Latrobe Valley hotel was targeted and no one was inside at the time.
Detectives are yet to make any arrests and are appealing for public assistance.
“The first man is described as wearing a light-coloured hooded top, dark-coloured track pants, dark-coloured runners and black gloves,” police said in a statement.
“The second man is described as wearing a light-coloured hooded top, dark-coloured track pants, dark-coloured runners, black gloves and was carrying a light-coloured satchel.”
Guy Martin, who operated the pub, said the day of the blaze was “one of the toughest days of my life”.
“The Churchill Pub — a place filled with memories, laughter, and community — has been destroyed by fire. At this stage, it’s believed to be a possible act of arson, which makes it all the harder to process,” he said.
“I’m heartbroken. This pub wasn’t just a business — it was home. A place where friendships were formed, milestones were celebrated, and locals felt like family.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
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