Two shops and two cars have been destroyed in a blaze that is being investigated for links to Victoria’s tobacco turf war.

Firefighters were called to Coonans Road in Pascoe Vale South, in Melbourne’s north, following several calls to triple-0 at 3:17am on Monday.

A Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) spokesperson said crews arrived to find thick smoke and flames coming from a convenience store and neighbouring shop.

A car had rammed the front of the store and was also on fire, and the flames had spread to a second vehicle parked on the street.

It took half an hour to bring the blaze under control but the crews managed to stop it from spreading along the retail strip.

Police said a family lived in a residence attached to the convenience store.

A spokesperson said it was lucky they were not injured.

Police have cordoned off the area and set up a crime scene.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by FRV specialists and a Victoria Police arson chemist.

Detectives are expected to arrive at the scene during the day.

Police are yet to confirm whether the blaze is linked to the tobacco dispute.

The Lunar Taskforce is investigating 114 fires dating back to March 2023.

FRV said firefighters would remain in Coonans Road for some time to ensure the blaze was fully extinguished.

Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information, including dashcam footage, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.