A reality TV star has become embroiled in the wave of fire bombings currently gripping Melbourne. Emergency services were called to a car dealership owned by former Married At First Sight groom James Susler after it was set ablaze at approximately 4:50 am on Tuesday.
The fire at the Chery car dealership in Port Melbourne is being treated as suspicious by police. Seven News reported that the dealership, which was due to officially open on Wednesday, was allegedly set upon by two attackers. It was also reported that one vehicle had been destroyed and several showroom cars sustained smoke damage.
The dealership reportedly had a security guard on site due to a recent firebombing at a neighbouring business linked to the dealership. Speaking to Seven News on Tuesday morning, James said the attack came as a complete surprise. When asked if the dealership had been threatened, he replied: 'No, we know as much as you guys. But we'll move on from this. We'll get bigger and stronger and we'll persevere.'
Dealership manager Victor Sargin told ABC Radio Melbourne that most of the damage was smoke-related. 'It looks like they've poured some fuel on the floor and lit it up. Luckily, the floors are hard floors, so those flames have only caught onto some furniture and the reception desk at the front,' he said.
The ABC also reported that police have not confirmed if the incident will be investigated by the Operation Eclipse task force, which is looking into a series of arson attacks on hospitality venues. The news comes just days after James took to Instagram to share his excitement about opening the new location. Sharing images and clips, he said the team had 'poured everything' into the new venture. 'After countless days of hard work, we're beyond excited to open the doors to our brand new Chery Melbourne City dealership,' the post read. 'We've poured everything into creating a space you'll love, and we couldn't be more proud to welcome you into Australia's biggest Chery showroom.'
James rose to fame as a groom on the 2021 season of Married At First Sight, where he was partnered with Joanne Todd. While he failed to find love with Joanne, he shocked his bride during a commitment ceremony by confessing his love for MAFS expert Alessandra Rampolla. An unimpressed Alessandra responded: 'I don't get the joke. I think it's incredibly disrespectful to Jo sitting next to you.' James admitted he was only joking, but Alessandra retorted: 'It's not a good joke.'
