Trio on the run after attempted arson attack at Flemington tobacco shop

A tobacco shop worker in Melbourne’s west has chased off three men armed with machetes after they tried to set the business alight.

A tobacco shop employee has chased three wannabe arsonists away with an axe after the machete wielding trio tried to set a Flemington business alight on Sunday night.

Three armed males arrived at a smoke shop on Racecourse Road about 11.20pm, police believe.

The group doused the front and inside of the store with liquid before trying to set the liquid on fire, unsuccessfully.

The group assaulted two staff members before trying to flee.

Brandishing an axe, one staff member chased the group out of the shop to their getaway vehicle, a dark blue Holden Commodore.

The staff member swung at the vehicle with the axe, damaging the car.

The police investigation into the incident remains ongoing as of Monday morning.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

It comes as a further two tobacco shops were also allegedly targeted in ram raids in Springvale, also on Sunday night.

It is not known if the incidents are related.

Originally published as Trio on the run after attempted arson attack at Flemington tobacco shop