Table of Contents
- Mentone shop destroyed as a series of arson attacks hits local tobacconists
- Residents, emergency crews and neighbouring businesses
- What we know about the pattern of attacks
- Community reaction and next steps
- Key facts at a glance
- FAQs
Mentone shop destroyed as a series of arson attacks hits local tobacconists
Melbourne's tobacco turf war has flared again, with a Mentone business destroyed after a late‑night fire. The Melbourne tobacco turf war has now seen the same tobacconist targeted three times in six weeks, leaving residents evacuated and nearby businesses without power.
Neighbours woke at about 11pm to the sound of an attack. Witnesses described the moment police and firefighters arrived, and how quickly the blaze took hold. One neighbour said they thought someone was trying to break into the apartments above the shop.
“Ever since they opened that shop it's just been going on. Fire bombing, trying to break in,” a local resident told reporters. The assault on the premises was over in minutes, with flames spreading rapidly.
“Within about five minutes, he was up in flames.”
Residents, emergency crews and neighbouring businesses
Upstairs apartments were evacuated overnight and many residents have since returned, though the building suffered structural damage. Firefighters described the situation as challenging because of collapse risks inside the structure.
Downstairs, a neighbouring salon was forced to close after losing power and internet, which meant staff could not access appointment books. Staff said they were grateful to nearby salon Alara, which offered space to take clients for the day.
What we know about the pattern of attacks
This is the third attack on the same tobacconist in six weeks. Previous incidents were reported on 30 August and 3 October. Police investigations into those earlier incidents remain open and unsolved.
Authorities are treating the latest fire as part of an ongoing pattern linked to a broader turf war between rival tobacco sellers. Local investigators are continuing inquiries into all three attacks.
Community reaction and next steps
Local people expressed frustration and concern about safety after another violent episode on their street. While residents and neighbouring businesses count their luck in being unharmed, the emotional and economic toll is clear.
Police investigative work is ongoing and residents have been urged to report any information that could assist. Fire authorities continue to assess structural safety at the site.
Key facts at a glance
- Location: Mentone, Melbourne.
- Incident: Tobacconist destroyed by fire after alleged arson and ramming of the storefront.
- Timing: Around 11pm on the night of the attack.
- Pattern: Third attack on the same shop in six weeks (previous dates 30 August and 3 October).
- Impact: Residents evacuated temporarily; neighbouring salon closed due to power and internet loss.
FAQs
What happened in Mentone?
A tobacconist in Mentone was destroyed in a late‑night fire after arsonists reportedly rammed the storefront. The attack was rapid and caused significant structural damage, forcing evacuations and disrupting nearby businesses.
How many times has this shop been targeted?
This is the third recorded attack on the same tobacconist in six weeks, with previous incidents occurring on 30 August and 3 October. All incidents are under investigation.
Were there any injuries?
No injuries were reported in the coverage. Residents were evacuated and local businesses were affected, but everyone was reported safe.
What is the police response?
Police investigations are continuing into this incident and the two earlier attacks. Authorities have urged the public to provide any information that might help solve the cases.
How have nearby businesses been affected?
A neighbouring salon lost power and internet, preventing staff from accessing appointment books. The salon temporarily closed, with one nearby business, Alara, offering to host their clients for the day.
How can the community help?
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity to police, share any footage or photos taken near the time of the attacks, and support affected local businesses as they recover.
The information in this article has been adapted from mainstream news sources and video reports published on official channels. Watch the full video here Melbourne's tobacco turf war explodes with a Mentone business torched | 7NEWS
