Police said they were all evacuated as a precaution.

Following a one-day manhunt, police identified 47-year-old John Argento as “a person who may be able to assist with their investigation”.

“In addition to the arson attack, investigators would like to speak with Argento regarding a car that was broken into some 20 minutes after the arson,” police said.

Argento is known to police and has an outstanding arrest warrant relating to deception-related offending.

Police believe Argento lives a “transient lifestyle” and frequents Melbourne’s inner southern and northern suburbs.

A photo of Argento has been released, with police urging anyone who knows his whereabouts to contact authorities.

He is described as being about 185cm tall, of thin build, with blue eyes, grey hair and a fair complexion.

Thursday’s incident is being treated as a targeted attack, however police say there is no indication Argento poses a specific risk to the Jewish community.

Police searched the area overnight but no arrests have been made.

Officers will continue to patrol the area and provide reassurance to the community.

The attack, just 11 days after the Bondi terrorist attack that targeted a Hanukkah celebration and left 15 people dead, led to locals and leaders speaking out.

“This is terrorism. Someone’s come to terrorise the Jewish community on Christmas morning,” rabbi of the Ark Centre Gabi Kaltmann said.

“Bondi Beach is now soaked with Jewish blood. Is that what we are waiting for here in Victoria?”

Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Chris Gilbert said officers were continuing to prioritise the investigation.

“We understand the devastating impact this type of offence has on our Jewish community,” Gilbert said.

“At this stage, we do not believe there is a broader threat to the Jewish community.

“We want to thank people in the area for their assistance in this investigation so far.”