NSW Police launch investigation into Surry Hills unit fire

An investigation has begun into whether the unit fire, which left three people in hospital, was deliberately lit.

Three people are in hospital with serious burns to their bodies after a unit fire broke out in inner Sydney, as police try to piece together a timeline of the “suspicious” blaze.

Emergency services were called to a unit block on Devonshire St, Surry Hills, following reports of a fire about 3.30am on Sunday.

Police are investigating the fire in Surry Hills unit. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Swift

The fire in a second-floor unit was quickly extinguished by Fire and Rescue NSW before it could spread to neighbouring units.

NSW Ambulance paramedics treated a 41-year-old man and a 39-year-old woman were treated for serious burns to their bodies.

One was then taken to Royal North Shore Hospital while the other was moved to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.

Firefighters were called to Surry Hills on Sunday morning. Picture: NCA NewsWire / James Gourley

The pair were both in serious but stable conditions.

Another 39-year-old woman was treated for burns to her legs before she was taken to St Vincent’s Hospital in a serious but stable condition.

Detective Acting Superintendent Gretchen Atkins said police believe the fire may have been deliberately lit.

“We haven’t been able to speak to any of the three victims so far,” she said.

Police believe the fire may have been deliberately lit. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Swift

“They were taken pretty much straight to hospital in a serious condition.

“They all know each other, but we haven’t been able to piece together exactly what their relationship is yet.

“We’re treating it as suspicious. We don’t know whether there has been an explosion, we’re just trying to work out what has happened.”

Police have established a crime scene and are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“Crime scene and fire investigators are still going at the scene, we’re just appealing to see if anyone can tell us anything, or has CCTV or witnesses,” Detective Acting Superintendent Atkins said.

Anyone with information about the fire is urged to call Surry Hills police, or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.