Body found near hardware store in Melbourne's north

Police have launched a suspicious death investigation after a body was found near a Bunnings hardware store in Melbourne's north this afternoon.

The body was found metres from the Epping hardware store, near a tree and fenced-off high voltage area off Cooper Street. 

Fire crews had been called to a grass fire in the same area about 3pm, and police have said the fire and death could be linked. 

Police have not yet established the person's identity or their cause of death. 

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.