The police are investigating a string of suspicious fires after a Lutwyche tattoo studio was targeted three times in just over a week, shutting down a major Brisbane commuter corridor and leaving local traders on edge.
Emergency services were called to CB Ink Tattoo Studio on Lutwyche Road shortly after 6:00 a.m. on Monday, 3 August. Firefighters quickly brought the blaze under control, but the damage was done.
Police immediately cordoned off the shop, establishing a crime scene at the venue, which houses over 25 artists.
Targeted arson sprees caught on camera
Monday’s early-morning fire marks the third attack on the business in eight days. Emergency crews previously responded to back-to-back blazes at 2:30 a.m. on Monday, 27 July, and 1:30 a.m. on Tuesday, 28 July.
CCTV footage from the earlier incidents captured a grey vehicle stopping outside the shop before a man smashed a front window and attempted to ignite the interior. Separate footage showed two masked men pouring accelerant near the storefront before fleeing in a silver Audi.
While no injuries have been reported, the repeated strikes have caused chaos for staff and clients, forcing the studio to scramble to reschedule appointments and manage significant property damage.
Commuters delayed as police appeal for leads
Monday’s emergency response also severely disrupted peak-hour traffic, with QldTraffic closing an inbound lane on Lutwyche Road and causing heavy delays before the road was cleared.
Queensland Police are treating all three blazes as linked, targeted arson attacks. However, no arrests have been made and a motive remains unclear.
Detectives are urging anyone with dashcam footage or information regarding suspicious activity along Lutwyche Road during the early-morning periods of 27 & 28 July, or 3 August to contact Policelink on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Published 4-August-2026
