Melbourne Nail Salon Targeted by Arsonists: A Disturbing Pattern
A nail salon in Melbourne's northwest has endured a harrowing experience, becoming the victim of arson twice in just 25 hours. The latest attack occurred at 2 am on January 30, 2026, when a group of arsonists crashed a white Nissan Navara ute into the front door of LaLa Nail Co. located on Keilor Road in Essendon North. They then set the salon ablaze and fled the scene in the stolen vehicle.
The sprinkler system in the building managed to contain the fire, preventing further damage to the property. However, the salon suffered significant damage from the incident. This attack follows a similar incident that occurred around 3 am the previous day, and it mirrors an attack on the same business last July.
Police are treating these arson attacks as deliberate and interconnected. The timing and nature of these crimes suggest a pattern of targeted violence. The salon's owner, who wishes to remain anonymous, expressed shock and fear, stating, 'I can't believe this is happening again. We've been through so much, and it's terrifying to think that our business is a target.'
The community is rallying around the salon, offering support and solidarity. Local businesses have stepped up to provide temporary services, and a fundraising campaign has been launched to help cover the salon's repair and reconstruction costs. The police are urging anyone with information about these attacks to come forward, emphasizing that they are treating this as a serious and ongoing investigation.
This incident highlights the vulnerability of small businesses to arson and the devastating impact it can have on the community. It also underscores the importance of community support and the need for increased security measures to protect businesses from such acts of vandalism and violence.
