Deer Park Fire Today: Police Investigate Suspicious Grocery Store Arson

DEER PARK, VICTORIA — October 23, 2026 — Police are investigating a suspicious overnight fire at a grocery store on Ballarat Road in Deer Park, Melbourne’s west, after suspected offenders reportedly entered the premises shortly before the blaze began.

According to local reporting, emergency services were called shortly before 1:35 a.m. on Friday. Fire Rescue Victoria crews responded and brought the fire under control by approximately 2:21 a.m. The grocery store sustained significant damage, while five surrounding businesses reportedly suffered smoke damage.

No one was inside the grocery store when the fire broke out. However, a witness required medical treatment at the scene for smoke inhalation.

Investigators believe the offenders left the area in a utility vehicle. Police have not publicly identified any suspects, announced arrests or confirmed a motive.

The circumstances surrounding the blaze remain under investigation. Authorities are working to establish how the fire started and identify those responsible.

Police are urging anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the area or has relevant information to come forward. CCTV footage, dashcam recordings and other information that could help investigators may be useful.

Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at Crime Stoppers Victoria.

Residents and business owners in the area are encouraged to provide relevant information directly to investigators rather than speculate about those responsible.

As of October 23, the investigation remains active. No confirmed arrests or final findings have been reported in the sources reviewed. The incident is being treated as suspicious, but responsibility and motive have not been established.