Crews battle Fitzroy North Tobacco shop fire

Fire Recue Victoria (FRV) responded a Tobacco Shop Fire in St Georges Road, Fitzroy North at 3.35am.

Crews arrived within six minutes to find a single storey shop within a shopping strip fully ablaze.

Firefighters attacked the fire externally whilst also trying to stop its spread to neighbouring businesses on either side and homes behind the property.

Crews searched the premises and confirmed no one was inside.

The fire was deemed Under Control at 04:32am, one hour after FRV arrived on scene. The fire has severely damaged the tobacco store and spread to neighbouring businesses on both sides.

The incident was deemed suspicious and will be investigated by Victoria Police.

Nine appliances and 29 firefighters were committed to the firefight.

FRV will remain on scene into daylight hours fully extinguishing the fire.

ENDS