“I’m not sure it was necessarily gunshots. It may just be bangs that the person thought were gunshots,” Chris said.

She did not want to reveal her last name to protect her safety.

Arson detectives were also investigating another suspicious fire overnight at a Tullamarine reception centre.

Police said at least two offenders were seen damaging the front of the building about 3.45am,and then used a suspected accelerant to set the premises alight before fleeing the scene.

“The arson and explosives squad are currently investigating and will keep an open mind regarding the motives,including any connections to other arsons committed in recent times,” a police statement said.

A crime scene has been established around both the Tullamarine and Docklands venues,and arson experts are expected to visit both scenes on Friday morning.

Last month,New Quay restaurantKarizma was destroyed in an arson attack in the early hours of November 20,the second time the venue had been targeted in three days.

Company records show Karizma is owned by Fadi Haddara,a prominent crime figure who has been linked to wide-scale drug trafficking,illicit tobacco importations and violence for more than a decade.

Police are investigating whether there are any connections between the fires and the feud over the control of Melbourne’sillicit tobacco trade,which has been linked to more than two dozen arson attacks across the city.

Anyone who witnessed either incident or has dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 orwww.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

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