An investigation is currently underway regarding a suspicious fire that severely damaged a medical clinic in Pascoe Vale, located in Melbourne’s northern suburbs. Emergency services were dispatched to a residential property used as a clinic on the corner of Gaffney and Derby streets around 9:30 PM last night, where they discovered the building entirely engulfed in flames.
Fortunately, no individuals were present inside at the time of the incident. However, the blaze posed a threat to nearby residences, leading to precautionary evacuations for local residents. A smoke warning was issued as firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the fire, which resulted in a significant structural collapse of the clinic’s roof. The firefighters successfully brought the fire under control approximately 50 minutes after their arrival.
There were no injuries reported as a result of the fire, but the incident has raised alarm due to its suspicious nature. Fire Rescue Victoria and Victoria Police have officially classified the fire as suspicious and have established a crime scene at the affected property. An arson specialist is scheduled to examine the site today to gather more information.
Authorities are encouraging anyone with relevant information or video footage of the incident to reach out to Crime Stoppers, as the investigation continues.