Man dies in explosive Ringwood house fire

An elderly man has died in an explosive house fire after two men tried to smash through a window of the burning Ringwood home but could not reach him.

Police and emergency services at the scene of a fatal Ringwood fire. Picture: Tony Gough

An elderly man has died in an explosive house fire in Melbourne’s east on Monday night, with police now investigating the cause of the blaze.

A neighbour, who did not wish to be named, said the man’s wife was visiting another neighbour when the house burst into flames.

She made her way out onto the street to see her home engulfed.

“She was just numb,” the resident said.

One of the victim’s grieving sons arrived at the home about 10.30am on Tuesday.

He was met with hugs and condolences from residents of the tight-knit street.

Emergency services were called to the Strathallyn Rd property in Ringwood shortly before 9.45pm.

Neighbours have reported hearing one “massive” explosion before the house erupted into flames.

The Herald Sun understands two men attempted to smash through a back window to rescue the man trapped in the burning property before firefighters arrived.

A Fire Rescue Victoria spokesman said triple-0 call takers received several calls for explosions and thick smoke coming from the home.

Firefighters were on the scene in 2.5 minutes.

The Strathallyn Rd property in Ringwood. Picture: Tony Gough

Police on the scene. Picture: Tony Gough

“(They) found flames in the roof and frantic onlookers,” the spokesman said.

The blaze was extinguished in under 30 minutes.

The couple who live in the house are believed to have called Strathallyn Rd home for more than 30 years.

Another neighbour said the “friendly” family raised their three children in Ringwood and now lived as empty nesters.

Investigators have been on the scene all of Tuesday morning, combing the gutted house for clues.

A Victoria Police spokesman said a crime scene has been established.

“Specialist fire investigators will examine the scene in the morning to determine the exact cause of the fire,” he said.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at crimestoppersvic.com.au.