Fire in Caulfield, Melbourne: A suspicious fire breaks out at the gym as police investigations begin
A massive fire has broken out at a Melbourne gym, prompting a police investigation.
Flames were seen coming from a building on Hawthorn Road in Caufield North, in the south-east of the city, at around 5.30am on Monday.
Initial reports indicate that two gyms are involved in the fire; Bayside Health and Fitness and Body Moves, also active as a physiotherapist.
A resident said they heard glass breaking around 5 a.m. and ran outside to see a white SUV driving away as several people inside the car were screaming.
Police are expected to launch an investigation after the fire is extinguished.
At 6:30 am, as many as 25 fire engines and 60 firefighters were on site.
Flames were seen from the second floor of a building on Hawthorn Road in Caufield North, in the city's south-east, at around 5am on Monday (photo, fire brigade on scene)
Residents living on either side of the burning building have been evacuated.
People living in Armadale, Caulfield, Caulfield East, Caulfield North, Elsternwick, Glen Huntly, Malvern and Malvern East may see or smell smoke.
“If you experience symptoms that may be due to smoke exposure, seek medical advice,” Fire Rescue Victoria said.
“There is no immediate threat to the community and no action is required.”
Hawthorn Road, which is also part of a busy tram network, is expected to remain closed in both directions for much of the morning.
More to come.