Man with police, girls fighting for life after ‘suspicious’ blaze in Chadstone, Melbourne
Police are now speaking with a man about a “suspicious” blaze that has left two young girls fighting for life.
Police are now speaking with a man about a “suspicious” blaze that ripped through a home in Melbourne's southeast overnight, leaving two young girls fighting for life.
Emergency services were called to a two-storey townhouse on Terrigal St in Chadstone at about 9.40pm on Wednesday, after reports flames and smoke were pouring from the premises.
Firefighters arrived only minutes later and forced their way into the building, where they located two school-aged children and a woman unconscious on the first floor of the burning property.
The two girls were evacuated and transported to The Royal Children’s Hospital, where they remain in critical conditions.
A 37-year-old woman was also rescued and taken to the Alfred Hospital, where she remains in a serious condition.
Police revealed later on Thursday that investigators were speaking with the fourth occupant of the home – a 36-year-old man – and said they were not looking for anyone else in relation to the fire.
The ferocious blaze was brought under control by about 10.15pm, though the house was extensively damaged.
Fire Rescue Victoria say flames penetrated the roof and caused partial structural collapse.
Police are treating the blaze as suspicious and established a crime scene at the residence.
An arson chemist is at the scene to conduct further investigations.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, with CCTV/dashcam footage or with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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