Police are seeking public assistance in relation to a suspicious fire at a car dealership in Tennant Creek early yesterday morning.

Superintendent Pauline Vicary said it appears the fire started inside the fenced compound of the car dealership on Paterson Street at around 1:00am.

“The fire spread quickly and a number of vehicles caught alight. The fire has then spread to a shed containing several more vehicles and workshop equipment.

“Nearby residents notified emergency services and the blaze was extinguished by Fire Crews a short time later.

“The shed, workshop equipment and 10 vehicles were destroyed by the fire. Police estimate the cost of damage to be around $500,000.

“Members from the Southern Serious Crime Squad, Crime Scene Examination Unit and Fire Investigators travelled from Alice Springs to assist Tennant Creek Police with their investigation. Enquiries are continuing.

“Police urge anyone with any information in relation to this incident to contact Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”