Arsonists most likely behind blaze of units under construction
A unit block under construction was most likely targeted by arsonists in Melbourne's south-east, while contractors were owed thousands of dollars.
The flames took hold of the complex at Dunstan Street at Clayton within in minutes and threatened to spread to a two-storey block next door.
Before long flames towered above neighbouring properties, taking 50 firefighters to control the blaze overnight.
The damage was estimated at more than $100,000.
Investigators at the scene on Saturday morning found two ignition points.
Work has halted on the site for at least three months, 7 News has learned, while one sub contractor is owed $6000.
Police suspect the blaze was deliberately ignited.
"The premises at the moment has no power so it's unlikely that it set itself a blaze,” Detective Senior Constable Peter Ashton said.
Melbourne Fire Brigade’s Rod East said it was worrying someone may have placed financial concerns before public safety.
"I think the council and the builder had got to a point where there was a logger head, so no progress was happening with the building.
"We're always concerned about people that put financial concerns in front of the neighbourhood. The units beside were totally evacuated at the height of the fire,” he told 7 News.
Catching the arsonists could be a difficult task for investigators, as there were no witnesses or security cameras in the area.
The local council will now check the site to see if repairs can be made or if the townhouses need to be demolished.
