Police are investigating a fire at a public housing building in Fitzroy North which claimed the life of a child on Saturday afternoon (Aug. 15).

Emergency services attended an apartment block at the intersection of Clauscen and Nicholson Sts about 12.30pm.

A young child was pulled from the burning building and taken to hospital in a serious condition. Sadly, he died shortly after arriving at hospital.

All other residents have been evacuated safely and are accounted for.

Police and fire authorities attended the scene and a crime scene was set up.

Detectives from the Arson Squad will investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.