Two teens charged over firebombing of ice cream parlour in Melbourne
Updated . First published at
A business owner's been left shattered after his ice cream parlour was firebombed, with the shop's security cameras capturing the blast and flames as they engulfed the building.
Two teens have been charged over the alleged incident with one taken to hospital after an encounter with a police dog.
Footage shows the fire ripping through the shop in Tarneit in Melbourne's west about 2.30am.
READ MORE: US lifts sanctions on Iranian oil to lower petrol prices
A business owner's been left shattered after his ice cream parlour was firebombed, with the shop's security cameras capturing the blast and flames 9News
Moments earlier a car was seen reversing into the business multiple times.
Two hooded figures jumped out of the vehicle and with what appears to be a jerry can in hand, they go inside.
Accelerant appears to be poured across the storefront before they allegedly try to ignite a blaze.
They failed twice, but on the third attempt a powerful blast erupts, forcing the alleged offenders to jump for their lives and flee in a Toyota Corolla, which was later found dumped.
Emergency services were called to reports of a fire the empty shop on Wool Street at Tarneit about 2.30am. Nine
The owner of the dessert bar arrived within minutes and was shocked and confused.
His shop is managed by a 16-year-old who's put his heart and soul into the business while juggling high school.
But he pledged it would come back soon.
"This business means a lot," manager Othman Hawari said.
"I've put lots of hard work into actually managing the place and doing stuff correctly and making the community come back again and again."
Hours after the attack, specialist officers arrested two 17-year-old boys, with help from the airwing about 5am.
Hours after the attack, specialist officers arrested two 17-year-old boys, with help from the airwing about 5am. 9News
One of them was bitten by a police dog during the arrest.
Arson chemists are now conducting a forensic sweep of the scene for any evidence left behind.
The pair have since been charged with aggravated burglary, criminal damage by fire, conduct endangering life/serious injury, theft of motor vehicle and possess articles to destroy.
One boy will face a children's court, while the other will have a bedside hearing as he remains in hospital.
NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.
- Download the 9NEWS App here via Apple and Google Play
- Make 9News your preferred source on Google by ticking this box here
- Sign up to our breaking newsletter here
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
