A FIRE gutted businesses at a Patterson Lakes shopping centre last week.
The fire broke out at the Harbour Plaza shopping precinct on Thompsons Road at around 11.35pm on 9 February. Police believe it was deliberately lit.
In a statement, police say two people smashed the front door of a shop, poured accelerant into the building, and ignited it. They left the scene in a car, with one of the offenders potentially being injured in the process.
The businesses affected by the fire have been left devastated, with some now facing the prospect of permanent closure.
It is understood that the businesses affected by the blaze include Ariake, Dandy Mart Tobacco, Beer and Wine Co, The Famished Wolf, Ercolano, and Soul Barre. Four shops were left completely destroyed.
Solutions for the affected businesses are now being discussed. The News understands that Kingston Council has discussed allowing some of the businesses to temporarily set up shop in council-owned buildings and spaces.
Fire units from Patterson River, Frankston, Dandenong, Carrum Downs, and Bayswater all attended the scene to fight the blaze.
Police have released CCTV images of two people they wish to speak to about the blaze, and a car of interest to the investigation. The vehicle is a silver 4WD utility with a canopy.
Information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 16 February 2022