House fire across the road from firebombed synagogue
A man has suffered burns in a blaze opposite the Adass Israel synagogue in Ripponlea that was torched in what has been declared a terrorist attack.
Police & Courts
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A man has been rescued from a burning home just metres from the Ripponlea synagogue that was firebombed earlier this month.
Firefighters rushed to the Oak Grove home in Ripponlea about 2.45pm on Thursday after residents reported smoke billowing from the weatherboard house.
The rear of the single-storey home, about 20m by 5m, was fully alight when fire crews arrived.
Crews wearing breathing apparatus successfully located and evacuated an occupant of the home.
He was being treated for burns and smoke inhalation by paramedics.
The blaze was brought under control at 3.09pm.
An advice message was issued for the surrounding streets warning others of smoke in the area.
“Smoke will be visible from nearby roads and communities,” the alert read.
“There is currently no threat to the community, but you should continue to stay informed and monitor conditions.”
Victoria Police said the investigation of Thursday’s house fire was a delicate operation.
“The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be determined but the matter is believed to be mental health related,” a statement read.
“At this time there is nothing to suggest any racial or religious connection to the fire.”
The home sits almost directly across the road from the Adass Israel synagogue which was razed by a fire in what has been declared a terrorist attack on December 6.
Up to three offenders allegedly torched the synagogue which caused millions of dollars of damage.
The attack was declared an act of terror and anti-Semitism.
No arrests have been made in that investigation but it remains ongoing.
There is no suggestion Thursday’s house fire is linked to the blaze at the synagogue.
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