Gang Rams Car into Footscray Hot Pot Restaurant in Suspected Arson Attempt
A Footscray hot pot restaurant was targeted in an early-morning ram raid on Wednesday —with offenders allegedly driving a stolen vehicle into the business before attempting to set it alight.
Victoria Police said emergency services were called to the Dragon Hot Pot Restaurant, Leeds Street store at about 2.50am Wednesday 19/8 —after reports that a vehicle had crashed into the premises. Detectives from the Maribyrnong Crime Investigation Unit are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police believe the offenders attempted to start a fire inside the restaurant, but the blaze failed to take hold. The incident nevertheless caused smoke damage to the premises. According to police, the offenders then fled, leaving the stolen vehicle —a black 2009 Toyota Prado —abandoned in the middle of the road.
The incident has raised concerns about a deliberate arson attack —with reports describing the offenders as a group who used the vehicle to force their way into the restaurant before attempting to ignite the premises.
Detectives are now examining the circumstances of the attack and will investigate whether it may be connected to other recent fires in the area. Police have not publicly identified any suspects or confirmed a motive.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Investigators are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident or may have captured relevant footage on a dashcam or security camera to come forward. Information can be provided to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. (NQ)
