An investigation is currently underway following a suspected arson attack that resulted in the destruction of an acai café in Campbellfield, Melbourne, which then spread to nearby businesses. The incident occurred early in the morning around 3:40am, when emergency services were alerted to the fire engulfing the premises on Mahoneys Road. Fortunately, no individuals were in the café at the time of the fire.
Fire and Rescue Victoria arrived shortly after the alarm was raised but found the single-storey café, measuring approximately 10 by 30 metres, already overrun by flames. Eyewitness reports indicate that two individuals were spotted behind the café prior to the fire’s outbreak, believed to be responsible for starting it before fleeing the scene.
The fire rapidly extended to adjacent businesses, including a local pet shop, leading to a tragic loss of life among the animals. Hundreds of fish, birds, and rabbits perished in the blaze, although twenty baby turtles and some Mexican walking fish managed to survive.
The pet shop owners expressed their devastation over the incident. Meanwhile, the acai café’s owner, who relocated to Australia just four years ago and had launched his business only five months prior, shared his confusion about the attack, stating he has no known enemies and lacks insurance coverage.
Both Victoria Police and Fire Rescue Victoria are treating the fire as suspicious, prompting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding it. This incident marks the fourth suspected arson case involving acai shops in Melbourne since February, raising concerns about a potential pattern of targeting within this sector.