Woman under police guard after suspected fire attack

Two women are in hospital after one allegedly set the other alight during an assault in northern Victoria.

The women, who are believed to be known to one another, were both injured during the suspected fire attack in Shepparton on Monday evening, and both were airlifted to The Alfred hospital in Melbourne.

A 20-year-old woman from Shepparton was in a critical condition.

A 33-year-old woman, also from Shepparton, was airlifted in a serious condition. She was under police guard in hospital on Tuesday.

Police say they believe the older woman set the younger woman alight on Middlesex Crescent about 6.30pm.

Ambulance Victoria said both women suffered upper body injuries and were transported to The Alfred after paramedics responded.

Detectives from the arson and explosives squad are investigating.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au.

John Silvester lifts the lid on Australia’s criminal underworld. Subscribers can sign up to receive his Naked City newsletter every Thursday.