Police investigate suspicious grassfire in Melbourne's north-west
Police are investigating a suspicious grassfire that occurred in Melbourne's north-west last night. Reports suggest that a group of youths were setting off fireworks shortly before the blaze erupted.
Emergency services were alerted to flames in grassland near La Scala Avenue in Maribyrnong around midnight. Upon arrival, Fire Rescue Victoria found a fire measuring approximately 200 metres by 50 metres burning close to apartment buildings.
A spokesperson from Fire Rescue Victoria stated, "The location of the blaze - in hilly parklands near the Maribyrnong River - added challenges to the firefight."
The fire was brought under control by 1:20am, with crews remaining on the scene to extinguish any remaining flames. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries; however, several hectares of grassland were damaged.
A community alert was issued for smoke in the area. Police have classified the fire as suspicious, urging anyone with information to come forward.
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