Bumbling arsonist on the run with 'significant burns' after restaurant fire
An alleged arsonist is on the run from police after setting himself alight while attempting to start a fire in a restaurant.
More than a year after the arson attack, police have launched a search to find the bumbling firebug caught on security footage throwing petrol around a Campbellfield restaurant in Melbourne's northern suburbs.
CCTV footage shows a car crashing through the front doors of the hospitality venue before the suspect empties a jerrycan of fuel on the bartop, tables and floor before 4.30am on May 21, 2024.
He slips in a puddle of petrol while setting the restaurant alight and is engulfed in a fireball, CCTV shows.
The man fled the restaurant, still on fire, and attempted to get into the front seat of the silver Mercedes-Benz E240 sedan.
Detective Inspector Graham Banks said it was likely that the alleged arsonist required treatment after suffering "significant burns".
"We are conscious that those involved in lighting the fires are likely the puppets for those pulling the strings in this syndicate, and they are being left with serious - or life-changing, as we've seen previously - burn injuries," he said.
Fire Rescue Victoria was on the scene quickly and the Hume Highway business sustained minor damage, police said.
But the business was targeted again, six months later, on November 6, 2024.
Police are hopeful that the CCTV will offer further avenues of enquiry and that someone may recognise the man in the footage and be able to provide information on his whereabouts.
He is described as approximately 170 to 175 centimetres tall with a large build and an olive complexion.
"Arson attacks put not only people's livelihoods at stake but also people's lives," Detective Inspector Banks said.
"We are doing everything we can to bring this dispute and the criminality linked to it to an end, but we need the community's support and assistance," he said.
Anyone who recognises the man or with any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
An alleged arsonist is on the run from police after setting himself alight while attempting to start a fire in a restaurant.
More than a year after the arson attack, police have launched a search to find the bumbling firebug caught on security footage throwing petrol around a Campbellfield restaurant in Melbourne's northern suburbs.
CCTV footage shows a car crashing through the front doors of the hospitality venue before the suspect empties a jerrycan of fuel on the bartop, tables and floor before 4.30am on May 21, 2024.
He slips in a puddle of petrol while setting the restaurant alight and is engulfed in a fireball, CCTV shows.
The man fled the restaurant, still on fire, and attempted to get into the front seat of the silver Mercedes-Benz E240 sedan.
Detective Inspector Graham Banks said it was likely that the alleged arsonist required treatment after suffering "significant burns".
"We are conscious that those involved in lighting the fires are likely the puppets for those pulling the strings in this syndicate, and they are being left with serious - or life-changing, as we've seen previously - burn injuries," he said.
Fire Rescue Victoria was on the scene quickly and the Hume Highway business sustained minor damage, police said.
But the business was targeted again, six months later, on November 6, 2024.
Police are hopeful that the CCTV will offer further avenues of enquiry and that someone may recognise the man in the footage and be able to provide information on his whereabouts.
He is described as approximately 170 to 175 centimetres tall with a large build and an olive complexion.
"Arson attacks put not only people's livelihoods at stake but also people's lives," Detective Inspector Banks said.
"We are doing everything we can to bring this dispute and the criminality linked to it to an end, but we need the community's support and assistance," he said.
Anyone who recognises the man or with any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
An alleged arsonist is on the run from police after setting himself alight while attempting to start a fire in a restaurant.
More than a year after the arson attack, police have launched a search to find the bumbling firebug caught on security footage throwing petrol around a Campbellfield restaurant in Melbourne's northern suburbs.
CCTV footage shows a car crashing through the front doors of the hospitality venue before the suspect empties a jerrycan of fuel on the bartop, tables and floor before 4.30am on May 21, 2024.
He slips in a puddle of petrol while setting the restaurant alight and is engulfed in a fireball, CCTV shows.
The man fled the restaurant, still on fire, and attempted to get into the front seat of the silver Mercedes-Benz E240 sedan.
Detective Inspector Graham Banks said it was likely that the alleged arsonist required treatment after suffering "significant burns".
"We are conscious that those involved in lighting the fires are likely the puppets for those pulling the strings in this syndicate, and they are being left with serious - or life-changing, as we've seen previously - burn injuries," he said.
Fire Rescue Victoria was on the scene quickly and the Hume Highway business sustained minor damage, police said.
But the business was targeted again, six months later, on November 6, 2024.
Police are hopeful that the CCTV will offer further avenues of enquiry and that someone may recognise the man in the footage and be able to provide information on his whereabouts.
He is described as approximately 170 to 175 centimetres tall with a large build and an olive complexion.
"Arson attacks put not only people's livelihoods at stake but also people's lives," Detective Inspector Banks said.
"We are doing everything we can to bring this dispute and the criminality linked to it to an end, but we need the community's support and assistance," he said.
Anyone who recognises the man or with any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
An alleged arsonist is on the run from police after setting himself alight while attempting to start a fire in a restaurant.
More than a year after the arson attack, police have launched a search to find the bumbling firebug caught on security footage throwing petrol around a Campbellfield restaurant in Melbourne's northern suburbs.
CCTV footage shows a car crashing through the front doors of the hospitality venue before the suspect empties a jerrycan of fuel on the bartop, tables and floor before 4.30am on May 21, 2024.
He slips in a puddle of petrol while setting the restaurant alight and is engulfed in a fireball, CCTV shows.
The man fled the restaurant, still on fire, and attempted to get into the front seat of the silver Mercedes-Benz E240 sedan.
Detective Inspector Graham Banks said it was likely that the alleged arsonist required treatment after suffering "significant burns".
"We are conscious that those involved in lighting the fires are likely the puppets for those pulling the strings in this syndicate, and they are being left with serious - or life-changing, as we've seen previously - burn injuries," he said.
Fire Rescue Victoria was on the scene quickly and the Hume Highway business sustained minor damage, police said.
But the business was targeted again, six months later, on November 6, 2024.
Police are hopeful that the CCTV will offer further avenues of enquiry and that someone may recognise the man in the footage and be able to provide information on his whereabouts.
He is described as approximately 170 to 175 centimetres tall with a large build and an olive complexion.
"Arson attacks put not only people's livelihoods at stake but also people's lives," Detective Inspector Banks said.
"We are doing everything we can to bring this dispute and the criminality linked to it to an end, but we need the community's support and assistance," he said.
Anyone who recognises the man or with any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Advertiser
10 hours ago
- The Advertiser
Bikie code of silence blocks 20-year old murder case
It's been 20 years since a notorious bikie boss vanished without trace and police are calling for gang members to break ranks and help deliver justice. Former Gypsy Joker president Steve Williams was last seen on June 14, 2005 at Gepps Cross Hotel in Adelaide. The then 38-year-old worked as a debt collector and had told his mum he was going to the pub to meet someone he knew. Thanks to a call to Crime Stoppers in 2005, police believe Mr Williams was later dropped at a trucking company in Gillman by an associate - most likely to collect money from someone who worked there. His white Ford Falcon was later found abandoned in the hotel car park. Despite his body never being found, it is believed Mr Williams was murdered. On Saturday, two decades since his disappearance, police believe his murder can be solved. Detective Sergeant Paul Ward said despite a code of silence adhered to by outlaw motorcycle gang members investigators had previously received some information about his disappearance. However there were still people out there they hadn't spoken to who knew exactly what had happened. "Over the last 20 years, friendships and loyalties may have changed," he said. "People are 20 years older, they may now have children of their own." Sgt Ward asked anyone withholding details to put themselves the position of Mr Williams' daughter, Blayze, who had grown up not knowing what happened to her father. "For the sake of the Steven Williams' family, if you have information, please contact Crime Stoppers and help find his remains and bring him home to his family," he said. Somewhat of a celebrity in South Australia, Mr Williams became a media-friendly face of the usually secretive bikie world and outlaw motorcycle club that he led. Despite speculation about his gruesome demise, which has almost become folklore in South Australia, none of the stories have led investigators to his body. Blayze Williams, who was only 13 when her dad went missing, has previously said she also believes he was murdered. "It's time - just come forward and give us a break from it all," she told 7News on Friday. "I'd like to spend one part of my life without worrying and actually knowing the answers. "Just give us a break and let there be an end to this. Let us finish it all and everyone can be rested." She maintained that despite his criminal links, her father was a kind, caring soul. A $200,000 reward is still on offer for information leading to a conviction or the recovery of Mr Williams' remains. It's been 20 years since a notorious bikie boss vanished without trace and police are calling for gang members to break ranks and help deliver justice. Former Gypsy Joker president Steve Williams was last seen on June 14, 2005 at Gepps Cross Hotel in Adelaide. The then 38-year-old worked as a debt collector and had told his mum he was going to the pub to meet someone he knew. Thanks to a call to Crime Stoppers in 2005, police believe Mr Williams was later dropped at a trucking company in Gillman by an associate - most likely to collect money from someone who worked there. His white Ford Falcon was later found abandoned in the hotel car park. Despite his body never being found, it is believed Mr Williams was murdered. On Saturday, two decades since his disappearance, police believe his murder can be solved. Detective Sergeant Paul Ward said despite a code of silence adhered to by outlaw motorcycle gang members investigators had previously received some information about his disappearance. However there were still people out there they hadn't spoken to who knew exactly what had happened. "Over the last 20 years, friendships and loyalties may have changed," he said. "People are 20 years older, they may now have children of their own." Sgt Ward asked anyone withholding details to put themselves the position of Mr Williams' daughter, Blayze, who had grown up not knowing what happened to her father. "For the sake of the Steven Williams' family, if you have information, please contact Crime Stoppers and help find his remains and bring him home to his family," he said. Somewhat of a celebrity in South Australia, Mr Williams became a media-friendly face of the usually secretive bikie world and outlaw motorcycle club that he led. Despite speculation about his gruesome demise, which has almost become folklore in South Australia, none of the stories have led investigators to his body. Blayze Williams, who was only 13 when her dad went missing, has previously said she also believes he was murdered. "It's time - just come forward and give us a break from it all," she told 7News on Friday. "I'd like to spend one part of my life without worrying and actually knowing the answers. "Just give us a break and let there be an end to this. Let us finish it all and everyone can be rested." She maintained that despite his criminal links, her father was a kind, caring soul. A $200,000 reward is still on offer for information leading to a conviction or the recovery of Mr Williams' remains. It's been 20 years since a notorious bikie boss vanished without trace and police are calling for gang members to break ranks and help deliver justice. Former Gypsy Joker president Steve Williams was last seen on June 14, 2005 at Gepps Cross Hotel in Adelaide. The then 38-year-old worked as a debt collector and had told his mum he was going to the pub to meet someone he knew. Thanks to a call to Crime Stoppers in 2005, police believe Mr Williams was later dropped at a trucking company in Gillman by an associate - most likely to collect money from someone who worked there. His white Ford Falcon was later found abandoned in the hotel car park. Despite his body never being found, it is believed Mr Williams was murdered. On Saturday, two decades since his disappearance, police believe his murder can be solved. Detective Sergeant Paul Ward said despite a code of silence adhered to by outlaw motorcycle gang members investigators had previously received some information about his disappearance. However there were still people out there they hadn't spoken to who knew exactly what had happened. "Over the last 20 years, friendships and loyalties may have changed," he said. "People are 20 years older, they may now have children of their own." Sgt Ward asked anyone withholding details to put themselves the position of Mr Williams' daughter, Blayze, who had grown up not knowing what happened to her father. "For the sake of the Steven Williams' family, if you have information, please contact Crime Stoppers and help find his remains and bring him home to his family," he said. Somewhat of a celebrity in South Australia, Mr Williams became a media-friendly face of the usually secretive bikie world and outlaw motorcycle club that he led. Despite speculation about his gruesome demise, which has almost become folklore in South Australia, none of the stories have led investigators to his body. Blayze Williams, who was only 13 when her dad went missing, has previously said she also believes he was murdered. "It's time - just come forward and give us a break from it all," she told 7News on Friday. "I'd like to spend one part of my life without worrying and actually knowing the answers. "Just give us a break and let there be an end to this. Let us finish it all and everyone can be rested." She maintained that despite his criminal links, her father was a kind, caring soul. A $200,000 reward is still on offer for information leading to a conviction or the recovery of Mr Williams' remains. It's been 20 years since a notorious bikie boss vanished without trace and police are calling for gang members to break ranks and help deliver justice. Former Gypsy Joker president Steve Williams was last seen on June 14, 2005 at Gepps Cross Hotel in Adelaide. The then 38-year-old worked as a debt collector and had told his mum he was going to the pub to meet someone he knew. Thanks to a call to Crime Stoppers in 2005, police believe Mr Williams was later dropped at a trucking company in Gillman by an associate - most likely to collect money from someone who worked there. His white Ford Falcon was later found abandoned in the hotel car park. Despite his body never being found, it is believed Mr Williams was murdered. On Saturday, two decades since his disappearance, police believe his murder can be solved. Detective Sergeant Paul Ward said despite a code of silence adhered to by outlaw motorcycle gang members investigators had previously received some information about his disappearance. However there were still people out there they hadn't spoken to who knew exactly what had happened. "Over the last 20 years, friendships and loyalties may have changed," he said. "People are 20 years older, they may now have children of their own." Sgt Ward asked anyone withholding details to put themselves the position of Mr Williams' daughter, Blayze, who had grown up not knowing what happened to her father. "For the sake of the Steven Williams' family, if you have information, please contact Crime Stoppers and help find his remains and bring him home to his family," he said. Somewhat of a celebrity in South Australia, Mr Williams became a media-friendly face of the usually secretive bikie world and outlaw motorcycle club that he led. Despite speculation about his gruesome demise, which has almost become folklore in South Australia, none of the stories have led investigators to his body. Blayze Williams, who was only 13 when her dad went missing, has previously said she also believes he was murdered. "It's time - just come forward and give us a break from it all," she told 7News on Friday. "I'd like to spend one part of my life without worrying and actually knowing the answers. "Just give us a break and let there be an end to this. Let us finish it all and everyone can be rested." She maintained that despite his criminal links, her father was a kind, caring soul. A $200,000 reward is still on offer for information leading to a conviction or the recovery of Mr Williams' remains.
Perth Now
12 hours ago
- Perth Now
Bikie code of silence blocks 20-year old murder case
It's been 20 years since a notorious bikie boss vanished without trace and police are calling for gang members to break ranks and help deliver justice. Former Gypsy Joker president Steve Williams was last seen on June 14, 2005 at Gepps Cross Hotel in Adelaide. The then 38-year-old worked as a debt collector and had told his mum he was going to the pub to meet someone he knew. Thanks to a call to Crime Stoppers in 2005, police believe Mr Williams was later dropped at a trucking company in Gillman by an associate - most likely to collect money from someone who worked there. His white Ford Falcon was later found abandoned in the hotel car park. Despite his body never being found, it is believed Mr Williams was murdered. On Saturday, two decades since his disappearance, police believe his murder can be solved. Detective Sergeant Paul Ward said despite a code of silence adhered to by outlaw motorcycle gang members investigators had previously received some information about his disappearance. However there were still people out there they hadn't spoken to who knew exactly what had happened. "Over the last 20 years, friendships and loyalties may have changed," he said. "People are 20 years older, they may now have children of their own." Sgt Ward asked anyone withholding details to put themselves the position of Mr Williams' daughter, Blayze, who had grown up not knowing what happened to her father. "For the sake of the Steven Williams' family, if you have information, please contact Crime Stoppers and help find his remains and bring him home to his family," he said. Somewhat of a celebrity in South Australia, Mr Williams became a media-friendly face of the usually secretive bikie world and outlaw motorcycle club that he led. Despite speculation about his gruesome demise, which has almost become folklore in South Australia, none of the stories have led investigators to his body. Blayze Williams, who was only 13 when her dad went missing, has previously said she also believes he was murdered. "It's time - just come forward and give us a break from it all," she told 7News on Friday. "I'd like to spend one part of my life without worrying and actually knowing the answers. "Just give us a break and let there be an end to this. Let us finish it all and everyone can be rested." She maintained that despite his criminal links, her father was a kind, caring soul. A $200,000 reward is still on offer for information leading to a conviction or the recovery of Mr Williams' remains.
Sky News AU
15 hours ago
- Sky News AU
Teen dead, woman fighting for life after major head on collision in Brisbane's western suburbs
A teenage boy is dead after a freak head-on collision in Brisbane's west. Emergency services were called to Fernvale Road, Brassall, at 8:40pm on Friday after receiving numerous reports of a head on collision between two cars. Police believe a white Mazda 3 slammed head on with a white Kia Seltos. An 18-year-old Brassall man who was the driver and sole occupant of the Mazda could not be saved and died at the scene. A 24-year-old woman who was the driver of the Kia was rushed to the Princess Alexandra Hospital for urgent treatment. It is believed the woman suffered a significant head injury and remains in a critical condition. Forensic Crash Investigations have been launched and remain ongoing to determine the circumstances leading up to the crash. Police are urging people who witnessed the crash or anyone with vision of the events to come forward and contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
