UPDATE: A fire at My Crazy Life Barbers in Wodonga has been confirmed as a deliberate and targeted attack, leaving the owners devastated and the community in shock. The blaze erupted around 10:45 PM on October 27, 2023, with investigators stating that an accelerant was used to ignite the front entrance, causing extensive damage to the business.
Co-owner Gino Coviello expressed disbelief at the attack, while fellow owner Maddison Golding fought back tears as she described the emotional toll of the incident. “I’m devastated,” Golding said. “It was hard just to get it up and running. It’s only been six months and we were doing really well.”
The barber shop has been closed indefinitely due to the fire, and Golding stated, “We’re not sure when we’ll reopen. It’s still all happening with police.” The owners are grappling with the uncertainty of their future, as Golding added, “Whether we open again we’re not sure, but we don’t feel safe.”
Despite the overwhelming damage, community support has poured in for the small business. “It’s touched our hearts,” Golding said, her voice trembling. Coviello shared the financial strain of the incident, noting, “Unfortunately, I only had basic cover insurance, which just covers the windows. As a barber shop, I didn’t expect a crime like that. It’s just shocking for everyone.”
Detective Leading Senior Constable Ian Deverell is leading the investigation and has called for public assistance. He is seeking information about any individuals or vehicles that may have been seen near the Sesame Lane property around the time of the fire. “It’s a deliberate, targeted offence,” Deverell stated. “Significant damage was caused to the business. We’re treating it as a suspicious fire and are currently reviewing security camera footage in the area.”
The police are treating this incident as an isolated offence but emphasize the seriousness of the attack on a small business. “This sort of attack on a small business is heartbreaking for the owners. It causes substantial financial loss, not only with the damage but in wages,” Deverell added.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the police at (02) 6049 2600 or 1800 333 000. As the community rallies around My Crazy Life Barbers, the owners face an uncertain future, underscoring the profound impact of violence against local businesses.
