Cause of Lutana house fire remains a mystery

EXPERTS have been unable to determine the cause of a blaze that caused about $80,000 damage to a house and two cars in suburban Hobart.

A triple-0 call was made about 11.40pm on Thursday from neighbours of the property in Risdon Rd, Lutana.

They were alerted by the sound of an alarm going off in one of the burning cars.

It is believed no one was home at the time of the incident, with no injuries reported.

Tasmania Fire Service crews from Hobart, Glenorchy and Claremont attended, with officers remaining on watch at the scene overnight.

Tasmania Police said TFS investigators have been unable to determine the cause of the fire, with police to continue investigations.

“Two vehicles parked at the residence — a Toyota Tarago and a Mitsubishi Pajero — were also damaged by fire,” police said.

“Total damage to the unit and vehicles is estimated to be around $80,000.”

Dorothy Figg, who lives directly behind the damaged property, said police alerted her and her husband, Brian, to the blaze.

“The first we heard was a lot of banging and a police lady told us we had to evacuate,” she said. “We only stood in the yard. “I think it was half past one or two [am] before we turned the lights out.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Glenorchy CIB on 131 444, Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestoppers tas.com.au.