Unit fire death

POLICE discovered a woman’s body in a burnt-out unit following a fire in Springvale this morning.
A speed camera operator returning to Springvale Police Station raised the alarm after noticing a property on Buckingham Avenue engulfed in flames just after midnight.
The unit is part of a retirement home at the rear of the police station.
The operator and police rushed to the scene and found the home well alight.
They evacuated a number of elderly residents unaware of the fire from neighbouring units, which were also damaged by smoke and flames.
A woman aged in her 80s from one of the units remains unaccounted for.
Alternate accommodation arrangements have been made for the displaced residents.
Police are investigating the fire’s cause and have cordoned off the area. They expect an arson chemist will attend the scene today.