About 7.45pm on Friday 25 July 2014, a patron entering the Elimattah Hotel reported a fire in Room 22 to staff. Tasmania Fire Service attended and extinguished the fire, managing to contain it to the one room which is adjoined to others and separate to the main Hotel building.

No person was injured in the fire, but there was extensive damage to the unit, although an estimate of damage can not be made until it is fully inspected in daylight.

An examination of the scene was conducted and the cause of the fire was determined as deliberate. Police are conducting an investigation into the matter and appeal for any witnesses to contact Devonport CIB on 6478 4036 or to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Police would particularly like to speak to anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously around the time and area of the fire.