Police release CCTV of arson attack which left woman ‘traumatised’

An arson attack in Melbourne’s west has left a woman traumatised as police release CCTV of the shocking incident.

An arson attack on a quiet suburban street in Melbourne’s west has left a woman traumatised, according to police who have released CCTV of the shocking incident.

Detectives believe the attack on McIntosh Rd in Altona North was “targeted”, with footage revealing it only took the offender 30 seconds to set the vehicle alight.

Detective senior constable Brendan Bennett said police were working closely with the local community to assure them this incident was isolated, with no further attacks in the two months since August 8.

Detective senior constable Brendan Bennett

“What we know so far is at around 11.45pm an unknown offender arrived at the address in a dark coloured sports vehicle, which is believed to be a Ford Focus,” he said.

“They approached the victim’s vehicle which was parked in the driveway of that address and poured accelerant on her vehicle.”

Det-Sen Constable Bennett said the woman was shaken up by the ordeal, but police were working closely with her and providing support.

“As you can imagine this is a traumatising experience for anyone,” he said.

He said the offender left along McIntosh Road in a northeast direction, and it was unclear if this was the actions of a sole offender or if they received any assistance.

“Police have released the CCTV to encourage members of the public to come forward with any information they may have,” he said.
Anyone with information about the arson, can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report anonymously online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.