Suspicious fire destroys pool hall

Star Entertainment Centre, Dandenong South was set alight in suspicious circumstances, police say.

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Police are investigating a suspicious fire that gutted a popular pool-hall building in Round Tower Road, Dandenong South.

More than 50 CFA and MFB fire-fighters tackled the fierce blaze that started on the top floor and spread through the roof of the distinctive round building before 4am on Monday 1 April.

The roof partially collapsed, causing fire-fighters to withdraw from inside the building.

No one was injured, the CFA reported.

In the meantime, a smoke warning was issued for the surrounding area. One lane of the South Gippsland Highway was closed.

A pool hall, bar and restaurant run by Star Entertainment Centre on the upper floor appeared to be gutted.

A shisha bar and pool hall run by Dunya Entertainment on the ground floor sustained water damage, according to the business’s Facebook post.

“Due to a fire outbreak at the upper floor neighbours, our business has been affected by water damage,” the post stated.

“Therefore, we are forced to stay closed for the upcoming days.

“We will put in the highest possible amount of effort and energy to get back to operation.”

Greater Dandenong CIU police are investigating the fire. No suspects have been identified at this stage, police say.

Any information to Greater Dandenong CIU on 9767 7444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au.