Caulfield, Melbourne fire: Suspicious blaze erupts at gym as police investigation is launched

A massive fire has erupted at a Melbourne gym, prompting a police investigation. 

Flames were seen coming from a building on Hawthorn Road in Caufield North, in the city’s inner southeast, just after 5am on Tuesday. 

Initial reports indicate two gyms are involved in the fire; Bayside Health and Fitness and Body Moves, which also operates as a physiotherapist. 

One resident reported hearing glass smashing at 5am and rushed outside to see a white SUV speeding away with several people yelling inside the car. 

Police are expected to launch an investigation after the fire is extinguished.

Pictured is the area of Caufield North affected by the fire

People living in Armadale, Caulfield, Caulfield East, Caulfield North, Elsternwick, Glen Huntly, Malvern, Malvern East have been told they may see or smell smoke on Tuesday morning

Up to 25 fire trucks and 60 firefighters were on the scene at the peak of the blaze. 

The blaze was declared under control by crews just before 7am. 

A Fire Rescue Victoria spokesperson said the 31 people were evacuated from a nearby residential property and a restaurant. 

‘An aggressive attack meant firefighters were able to contain the fire to two storeys of the building,’ the spokesperson said. 

People living in Armadale, Caulfield, Caulfield East, Caulfield North, Elsternwick, Glen Huntly, Malvern, Malvern East may see or smell smoke. 

‘If you are experiencing any symptoms that may be due to smoke exposure, seek medical advice,’ Fire Rescue Victoria said. 

‘There is no immediate threat to the community and no action is required.’

Hawthorn Road, which is also part of a busy tram network, is expected to remain closed in both directions for much of the morning.