Chelsea house fire: Police search for man after flames rip through 1 Catherine Avenue property

A firebug is believed to be on the run in Melbourne’s southeast following a blaze in Chelsea.

Police are searching for a young man following a suspicious house fire in Chelsea. Picture: Chelsea SES

A young man wearing a Mickey mouse shirt is at the centre of a police investigation after a mysterious fire tore through a Chelsea property.

The 1 Catherine Ave home was destroyed by flames just after 2pm on February 28, with police on Thursday releasing an image of a man they believe could help with their investigation.

The photo, believed to be taken by a bystander, shows a young man — appearing to hold a jerry can — walking down the street as flames take hold of the property behind him.

He was wearing a black T-shirt with a Mickey mouse logo, blue jeans and white sneakers.

The blaze caused extensive damage to the house and neighbouring properties but no one was injured.

Police believe this man may be able to help with their inquiries. Picture: Victoria Police

The 1 Catherine Ave property was destroyed. Picture: Chelsea SES

The search for the man comes as two adjoining factories in Cheltenham were gutted by fire on Thursday morning.

More than 70 firefighters tackled the blaze at Age St just after 12.40am.

The fire took more than three hours to bring under control and crews managed to stop the fire spreading to other adjoining buildings.

Anyone with information in relation to the Chelsea fire is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.