Police called in to investigate after family of four escape house fire in Melbourne’s north

A FAMILY has narrowly escaped their burning Sunshine home in one of two major fires in Melbourne overnight. A Williamstown factory was also destroyed by fire.

A FAMILY of four has narrowly escaped a house fire in Sunshine overnight in one of two major fires in Melbourne.

A panicked call with distressed people in the background alerted authorities to the Leonard St fire about 5.25am.

MAN DIES AFTER PACKED UTE FLIPS IN COUNTRY VIC

THE SCAM USED BY FOREIGNERS TO BUY OUR HOMES

The family of four escaped unharmed however their weatherboard house has been severely damaged.

Police are now investigating the incident after the fire was deemed suspicious, but the cause of the blaze is not yet known.

The fire threatened to engulf neighbouring properties, with crews battling to control the flames for 20 minutes.

A fire has destroyed a factory in Williamstown North. Picture: Patrick Herve.

Fire crews battle the Williamstown North blaze. Picture: Patrick Herve.

The cause of the blaze is yet to be determined. Picture: Patrick Herve.

Earlier this morning a smoke warning was issued to Williamstown North residents as fire engulfed a factory.

The factory was already well alight when fire crews arrived at the Macaulay St address about 1.50am.

A firefighter examines the scene this morning. Picture: David Crosling.

Concerns were held for nearby factories, but firefighters were able to contain the blaze to the one premises.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.