Authorities in regional Victoria have launched an arson investigation following a suspicious vehicle fire that destroyed a car in the Freshwater Creek area overnight.
Emergency response to blazing vehicle
Emergency services were called to the scene on Freshwater Creek Road shortly after 10:30 pm on Tuesday night following reports of a car well alight. Firefighters from the Country Fire Authority worked quickly to extinguish the blaze, but the vehicle sustained significant damage.
The incident is being treated as suspicious by Victoria Police, who have confirmed they believe the fire was deliberately lit. The Geelong Crime Investigation Unit has taken charge of the case and is following several lines of inquiry.
Police appeal for public assistance
Investigators are now urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Police are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the Freshwater Creek Road area between 10:00 pm and 11:00 pm on Tuesday night.
Detectives are also seeking any motorists with dashcam footage who were traveling through the Freshwater Creek area during that time period. The rural location means that any additional evidence could prove crucial to the investigation.
Freshwater Creek, located southwest of Geelong, is typically a quiet rural area, making the incident particularly concerning for local residents. The deliberate destruction of property through fire poses significant risks to both people and the environment, especially during warmer months.
Community vigilance encouraged
Police have reminded residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior immediately. Arson investigations often rely heavily on community assistance, with even small pieces of information potentially helping to solve cases.
Anyone with information about the suspicious car fire is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online. The investigation continues as police work to identify those responsible for the deliberate ignition.
