Darebin Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a car fire which occurred in Reservoir on Saturday night.
Officers have been told a white Hyundai Kona with allegedly stolen plates was travelling west along Mahoneys Road about 11.20pm on 7 January.
The car caught fire near the intersection of Hughes Parade and stopped in the middle of the road.
The three passengers in the car got out and dragged the driver from the burning vehicle.
All four ran off towards Hughes Parade before separating.
The driver, who suffered serious burns, made it to a property on Mahoneys Road where an ambulance was called and he was taken to hospital in a critical condition.
Police are yet to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident and wish to speak to anyone who may have CCTV or dashcam footage of the Kona prior to it catching fire or footage of those leaving the scene.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.auExternal Link
Mahoneys Road is expected to be closed until later this morning while an arson chemist attends the scene.