Unoccupied Ormond house catches fire, neighbouring homes evacuated

A roof has collapsed in an overnight blaze at a house in Melbourne’s southeast. Neighbouring houses were evacuated as crews battled the blaze.

An unoccupied house in Ormond caught fire on Saturday night. Picture: Andrew Henshaw

A blaze in an unoccupied Ormond house is being investigated by emergency services after it caught fire late last night.

A passer-by called the MFB after they saw the house fire around midnight.

Upon arrival, crews upgraded the call to send for extra help.

The single storey Cadby Ave house was engulfed and crews attempted to gain entry to attack the fire but the roof was showing signs of collapse.

A house damaged by fire overnight. Picture: Andrew Henshaw

An investigation in ongoing as to the cause of the fire. Picture: Andrew Henshaw

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An internal search of the property was not possible once the roof collapsed and asbestos is thought to be involved in the fire.

A number of neighbouring houses were evacuated as a precaution, the blaze was declared under control in 25 minutes after 10 units were deployed.

Police and paramedics assisted on scene and no one was injured during the incident.

MFB staff wearing breathing apparatuses could be seen going through the wreckage this morning.

Although it is believed the house is unoccupied, it is full of furniture, personal belongings and a large truck is parked outside.

A neighbour told the Herald Sun that a middle aged man lived at the house with his young son, but is presently staying with family after recently visiting Greece for his father’s funeral.

“There was some previous damage to the house already,” she said.

“When he returned from Greece, he decided to stay with someone else until the house could be repaired.”

It is unknown whether the owner of the property has been notified of the blaze.

The cause is still unknown at this stage and an investigation is underway.

Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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