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Mernda coronavirus testing centre targeted in arson attack

A coronavirus testing centre went up in flames overnight, with metre-high flames damaging the pop-up facility in Melbourne’s northeastern suburbs.

A COVID-19 testing centre went up in flames in Mernda. Picture: NCA NewsWire/David Crosling
A COVID-19 testing centre went up in flames in Mernda. Picture: NCA NewsWire/David Crosling

Police are investigating a late-night arson attack at a coronavirus testing station in Melbourne’s northeast.

Emergency services were called to Waterview Recreation Reserve in Mernda about 10.40pm Monday night following a call to triple-zero which reported the suspicious fire.

The CFA said three trucks attended and the blaze was put out before 11pm.

Workers inside the damaged marquee. Picture: Andrew Henshaw
Workers inside the damaged marquee. Picture: Andrew Henshaw
The arson attack left a guard suffering smoke inhalation. Picture: Andrew Henshaw
The arson attack left a guard suffering smoke inhalation. Picture: Andrew Henshaw

The fire to the wall of the marquee was about a metre high.

A security guard suffered smoke inhalation.

Victoria Police has been contacted for comment.

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Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/truecrimeaustralia/police-courts/mernda-coronavirus-testing-centre-targeted-in-arson-attack/news-story/2ccfded7d0a888756e4d0262217df0f3