Popular Tasmanian café destroyed by suspicious fire
A suspicious fire has destroyed a popular café in southern Tasmania and spread to an adjacent business leaving a damage bill expected to be around $500,000.
At around 5:20pm on Saturday, emergency crews were called to Circle Coffee House in New Norfolk where the café was found to be engulfed in flames.
A physiotherapy business next door has also suffered smoke and heat damage.
"It looks as though the fire has been deliberately lit, it was possibly lit on the outside before making its way into the building," Acting Inspector Darren Latham from Tasmania Police said.
"Someone has decided to do something rather silly but unfortunately those actions have caused significant damage."
Tasmanian Police are following a particular line of enquiry after receiving information from community members.
"It's allowed us to focus our efforts a bit more towards who we think may be responsible, but we still have a bit more work to do" Acting Inspector Latham said.
Police are urging people with information to come forward by calling 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Hundreds of people from the tight-knit community have expressed their disbelief on social media.
"Derwent Valley has an excellent reputation for getting behind its own, there's been a lot of emotional support for Penny and Brett and staff at the Circle Café," Derwent Valley Council Mayor Michelle Dracoulis said.
"We are wrapping our arms around them and letting them know they are loved.
"It's been a very sad weekend."
Irit Jackson, 22nd August 2022
