Investigation continues into fire at Richmond car dealership

Detectives from the Arson and Explosives squad are investigating following a suspicious fire at a Richmond car dealership overnight.

Police believe up to three people used a vehicle to smash their way into the Swan Street premises, near the intersection of Burnley Street, about 11.20pm on Thursday, 21 May.

Once inside, the offenders spread accelerant throughout the premises and on a $500,000 McLaren sports car parked within the business.

They then lit the accelerant and during this process, it’s believed at least one of the offenders suffered serious burns.

The offenders then got back in their white SUV and headed south along Burley Street and away from the scene.

Two cleaners were inside the business at the time of the incident, however luckily they were not injured.

At the time of the incident, the offenders were all wearing dark clothing including black jumpers, tracksuit pants, shoes and jackets.

They are described as being short and chubby.

Local detectives from Yarra Criminal Investigation Unit and the arson chemist are also working with Arson and Explosives Squad detectives to investigate the matter.

At this time police are still looking at whether there are any possible links to the series of incidents being investigated as part of Operation Eclipse.

Police will also conduct further patrols of the local area over the coming nights.

Detectives are keen to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the fire or has CCTV or dashcam footage of the incident.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Media Unit

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