UPDATE: The smouldering remains of a body have been found near rail lines in St Kilda East.
Officers from the Metropolitan Fire Brigade discovered the badly burnt male body at Alma Park after receiving a report of a fire at 6.18am.
Victoria Police spokeswoman Creina O’Grady said a container of accelerant was located in the vicinity of the body.
The accelerant was not believed to be spray paint.
The body was found on a grass embankment about 200 metres from a railway bridge on Alma Road and near an overhead gantry on the Sandringham line.
Ms O’Grady said police did not believe the man was electrocuted and it was thought to be a non-suspicious death.
Police have shielded the body from view and are diverting workers and school children who normally walk through the park.
It is not yet known if the death was suspicious, police said.
A cyclist, who would not give his name, said the area was popular for “train surfing” and there had been two other deaths from the practice at the same location. Police would not comment on the possibility of the man being a train surfer or vandal.
All trains have been suspended between Elsternwick and South Yarra and Metro is warning of major delays.
Buses have replaced trains from Elsternwick to Caulfield. Customers for stations between Ripponlea and Prahran are advised to catch alternative transport.
Passengers are advised to visit Metro’s website for more details.
Local police and detectives are at the scene.
A report is being prepared for the coroner.
– With Deborah Gough
