A factory fire that erupted in inner Melbourne’s Clarendon Street today (06) has prompted a police investigation as it blanketed the area in smoke and led to significant traffic disturbances during peak hour.
The incident, which occurred just after 4 pm Australian time necessitated the deployment of numerous firefighters and an aerial unit to combat the blaze.
The intense inferno, which consumed two small factories near Haig Street, took approximately an hour for the firefighting teams to bring under control. As a precautionary measure, emergency services advised local residents and motorists to avoid the affected vicinity, resulting in the closure of Clarendon Street in both directions and tram diversions.
Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of individuals trapped within the premises. However, Fire Rescue Victoria crews intend to conduct a thorough search of the buildings once it is deemed safe to do so. In the meantime, residents of surrounding suburbs have been cautioned to expect lingering smoke in the area for an extended period.
While the exact cause of the fire remains undetermined, the police have confirmed their suspicions and are treating the incident as a potential act of arson.
-The Guardian-
