Two Teenagers Arrested After Alleged Arson Attack on Melbourne Ice Cream Shop
Two teenagers have been taken into custody after allegedly setting fire to an ice cream shop in Melbourne, causing significant damage and triggering an explosion. Emergency services were called to the scene on Wool Street in Tarneit at approximately 2:30 am on Saturday, where firefighters worked to bring the blaze under control.
Details of the Alleged Incident
CCTV footage from the scene reportedly shows two hooded figures using a car to ram into the shop front. The individuals are then seen retrieving a petrol can, entering the building, and igniting a fire that led to an explosion. After the incident, the figures returned to the vehicle and fled the area.
Investigators later located a Toyota Landcruiser, believed to be connected to the crime, abandoned at the intersection of Dohertys Road and Mount Cottrell Road in Mount Cottrell. Police, along with the dog squad and Air Wing, conducted a search of the vicinity, resulting in the arrest of two 17-year-old boys from the Greater Dandenong area around 5 am.
Injuries and Police Response
During the arrest, one of the teenagers sustained a bite from a police dog and was subsequently taken to a hospital for treatment. Authorities have established a crime scene at the location, and an arson chemist is expected to examine the site as part of the ongoing investigation.
Shop Owner's Reaction
The owner of the ice cream shop, Mahmood, expressed confusion and distress over the attack, stating he had no understanding of why his business was targeted. "I need to ask the one who burnt my shop why he’s done it. Why? What have I done to you?" he said. He reviewed security footage, which showed one or two individuals with a large petrol container entering the shop before setting it alight.
Another family member described the event as "very shocking", emphasizing that they had no known conflicts with anyone. Vision from inside the shop captured the force of the explosion, with doors being blown off during the incident.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
Police are continuing their investigation into the arson and are urging anyone with information to come forward. This includes:
- Witnesses to the incident
- Individuals with dashcam or CCTV footage
- Anyone who may have relevant details
Authorities encourage the public to contact Crime Stoppers to assist in the case. The community remains on alert as officials work to determine the motive behind this destructive act.
