One of the most iconic live music venues in the country, Melbourne’s The Tote, has been left smouldering after a late night Molotov cocktail attack. Though the damage is minimal, a full police investigation is now underway.
According to 3AW, the hotel (which is located in Collingwood) was attacked by an unknown suspect around 2am last night. It’s believed that the individual threw the projectile towards the venue’s bathrooms. It wasn’t until later this morning that staff discovered the damage.
FL spoke to the venue’s co-owner Jon Perring, who was quick to renounce any serious damage, reporting minimal loses: “We lost a dunny, but they probably did us a favour,” but admitting that “someone obviously had a crack at us”. There is believed to be CCTV footage of the firebombing taking place. A crime scene has been set up, blocking off Johnston and Wellington streets while they snoop for clues, according to The Standard.
The venue is set to re-open on Wednesday, according to Perring, who confirmed that now “it’s business as usual”. Surely the culprit learnt nothing from what happens when you attack cherished watering holes, a la Sydney’s Annandale.
Update: Watch Security Camera Footage
