Man with police, girls fight for life after ‘suspicious’ blaze in Chadstone, Melbourne

Police are now speaking with a man about a “suspicious” blaze that has left two young girls fighting for life.

Police are now speaking with a man about a “suspicious” blaze that ripped through a home in Melbourne's southeast overnight, leaving two young girls fighting for life.

Emergency services were called to a two-storey townhouse on Terrigal St in Chadstone about 9.40pm on Wednesday after reports flames and smoke were pouring from the premises.

Three people are fighting for life following a suspicious house fire. Picture: NewsWire/ David Crosling

Firefighters arrived only minutes later and forced their way into the building, where they located two school-aged children and a woman unconscious on the first floor of the burning property.

The two girls were evacuated and transported to The Royal Children’s Hospital, where they remain in critical conditions.

A 37-year-old woman was also rescued and taken to the Alfred Hospital, where she remains in a serious condition.

Detective Inspector Chris Murray said police were treating the blaze as suspicious but would not go into the reasons why.

He also said the fourth occupant of the home – a 36-year-old male – was not a suspect and was assisting police with their inquiries.

“One can only hope and pray that certainly the children get through this and the mother,” he said.

“But we know from experience, such an incident where we have an explosion and fire can be absolutely devastating.”

Inspector Murray said a loud bang heard by neighbours was likely a gas cylinder inside the home exploding; however, it was unclear whether this caused the blaze or erupted after it took hold.

Police are treating the blaze as suspicious. Picture: NewsWire/ David Crosling

The ferocious blaze was brought under control by about 10.15pm, though the house was extensively damaged.

Fire Rescue Victoria say flames penetrated the roof and caused partial structural collapse.

An arson chemist is conducting further investigations. Picture: NewsWire/ David Crosling

Police are treating the blaze as suspicious and established a crime scene at the residence.

An arson chemist is at the scene to conduct further investigations.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with CCTV/dashcam footage or with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Originally published as Man with police, girls fight for life after ‘suspicious’ blaze in Chadstone, Melbourne