Police will investigate the circumstances surrounding an incident in Meadow Heights on Wednesday where a car was set alight after it crashed into a milk bar.
Emergency services were called to the shop on Magnolia Boulevard, near Melaleuca Drive, following reports two men were seen trying to douse a vehicle in the store with liquid shortly before 1am.
The pair, who it is believed rammed the utility into the premises before it was set alight, left the scene in a dark coloured vehicle.
The milk bar was extensively damaged, with the car and shop were fully engulfed when firefighters arrived..
The occupants of a residence at the rear of the premises were able to evacuate safely without injury.
Investigators have cordoned off the area and set up a crime scene. It is expected an arson chemist and detectives will attend the scene on Wednesday.
Police will investigate whether the damage and fire are linked to any other recent incidents.
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au