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Police are investigating a shop fire that broke out at Tunstall Square Shopping Centre on the evening of Tuesday 20 January, prompting a major late-night emergency response.
Emergency services were called to Tunstall Road shortly before 9pm following multiple Triple Zero (000) calls reporting a shop well alight. On arrival, firefighters found heavy smoke and flames issuing from the shopping strip, prompting an escalation of the response.
At least six fire trucks, along with SES units, Victoria Police, and paramedic crews, attended the scene. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus worked to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to neighbouring businesses. A group of people, including several local business owners, gathered in the car park fronting the shops as crews worked to control the fire.
Videos taken by onlookers shortly after the fire began show flames and thick smoke billowing from the premises. Witnesses reported that the Lucky 2 Dollar Shop was ablaze, with the fire believed to have started at the rear of the shop. No one was inside the premises at the time.
The fire was declared under control at 10.31pm and was fully extinguished just after midnight. Fire Rescue Victoria crews remained on scene into the early hours of the morning conducting overhaul operations and ensuring the area was safe. A community advice message was issued due to smoke in the area.
Adjoining businesses, Baker’s Delight and Mauro Bros Butcher, sustained damage.
A crime scene has been established and an arson chemist is expected to attend. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV or dashcam footage, or may have information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Additional information sourced from Fire Rescue Victoria and Victoria Police.
Editor’s note (update): This article was updated on 23 January 2026 to reflect advice from Victoria Police. References to the fire being treated as suspicious have been removed.
