Hogans Corner $2+ destroyed in shopping centre blaze in Hoppers Crossing as police investigate

A discount store in Melbourne’s west has been completely destroyed, and two other businesses badly damaged, by a suspicious fire as authorities investigate its cause.

A suspicious fire has destroyed a discount shop and badly damaged two neighbouring businesses inside a busy Melbourne shopping centre as police investigate.

Patrolling police were the first to notice the blaze after spotting smoke and flames billowing from the Hogans Corner Shopping Centre on Derrimut Rd, Hoppers Crossing about 3am Wednesday.

The fire began near the ‘Hogans Corner $2+’ store but quickly spread to neighbouring businesses, causing major damages to two stores.

Hogan's Corner has been completely gutted as a result of the fire. Picture: Nilsson Jones

The Hogans Corner $2+ store is completely gutted.

The neighbouring stores of Percy and Fred Salon, and Smokin Joes Pizza and Grill were also badly damaged.

The damage done at Hogan’s as a result of a suspicious blaze. Picture: Nilsson Jones

On the other side Daniel’s Donuts was closed but it did not appear to be damaged.

No one was inside at the time.

Neighbouring shops were also damaged in the fire. Picture: Nilsson Jones

The power is cut off to most of the surrounding businesses, including ATMs.

The Lotto store and pharmacy were also closed and filled with soot.

Workers at a neighbouring business said they could not yet check the security cameras because the wires had been destroyed by the blaze and would need to wait for an electrician.

Two fire crews remained at the scene about 9am as a precaution.

Police were slim the car park interviewing shop owners and workers at neighbouring businesses.

Police are investigating the exact circumstances of the incident, but it is being treated as suspicious at this stage.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.