Two Suspects Caught on CCTV Nearly Set Themselves on Fire During Arson Attack on Tobacco Shop in Mackay
Surveillance footage released by the on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, shows two masked men nearly setting themselves on fire while carrying out an arson attack on a tobacco shop at . The incident, which occurred in late February 2026, is now being investigated as part of a series of coordinated attacks targeting the same business in recent weeks.
The most severe fire occurred in the early hours of Sunday, March 1, 2026, at approximately 2:00 a.m. local time. According to police, the tobacco store had already been targeted multiple times since early February. No injuries were reported, but the blaze caused significant structural damage and forced the temporary closure of several neighboring businesses within the shopping complex.
CCTV footage released to the media shows two men dressed in dark clothing and face coverings approaching the storefront while carrying what authorities believe to be improvised incendiary devices. One suspect appeared to struggle while igniting the device before throwing it toward the shop’s glass entrance. Flames immediately erupted at the front of the building, and sparks nearly struck one of the suspects, who had been standing too close to the ignition point. Both men were seen panicking and fleeing the scene moments later.
Police stated that the incident does not appear to be isolated. Investigators have confirmed that the same store has been targeted at least four times in suspected arson attempts since early February 2026. Authorities are examining the possibility of organized criminal involvement, although the exact motive remains under investigation. Preliminary lines of inquiry suggest potential links to illicit tobacco trade disputes or conflicts within illegal distribution networks.
Fire crews arrived at the scene within minutes of the emergency call and were able to contain the blaze before it spread further throughout the shopping center. However, the fire caused extensive damage to the storefront façade and interior fittings, with financial losses estimated in the hundreds of thousands of Australian dollars. The area was temporarily sealed off as forensic officers conducted crime scene examinations.
The Queensland Police Service confirmed that the CCTV footage was intentionally released to the public to assist in identifying the suspects. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers Queensland. As of March 4, 2026, no arrests have been officially announced, though investigators say they are pursuing several significant leads.
The incident has raised concerns among Andergrove residents and business owners in Mackay regarding an apparent increase in criminal activity targeting commercial properties. Local authorities have expressed support for the ongoing investigation and encouraged business operators to strengthen security measures, including installing additional surveillance cameras and improving exterior lighting.
Police emphasized that the investigation remains active and that potential links to a broader criminal network have not been ruled out. Authorities have pledged to thoroughly pursue the case in order to prevent further attacks. Meanwhile, the affected store remains closed pending safety assessments before it can resume operations.