Detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad are investigating a series of suspicious fires which occurred in Portland yesterday.
Within two hours, emergency services responded to four fires within the local area.
The first fire occurred in a bin at the corner of Percy and Gawler streets about 5.50am.
Less than an hour later, a shrub on top of a bollard was reported on fire on Cape Nelson Road at 6.40am.
Police were then called to a garage fire on Camira Street about 7am.
Several passers-by attempted to put the fire out before firefighters arrived and extinguished the blaze.
The building sustained moderate damage to the roof.
No injuries were reported.
The final fire occurred in a shed and toilet room on Short Street at 7.38am. The shed was completely destroyed.
A 66-year-old CFA member collapsed while responding to the Short Street fire. Sadly, the Portland man died at the scene.
His death is not being treated as suspicious.
Investigators are currently treating the fires as linked and would like to speak to anyone who saw any suspicious behaviour in the vicinity of the fires to come forward.
Any witnesses, anyone with CCTV/dash cam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
