Victoria Police are investigating a tragic arson attack in Truganina, a suburb of western Melbourne, that resulted in the death of 27-year-old Kate Tangey and her pet golden retriever. The incident, which occurred in January, has been described by Detective Inspector Chris Murray as one of the most devastating cases he has encountered in his 38 years of policing.
On January 16, 2025, emergency services were alerted to a fire at a three-storey townhouse on Dover Street at approximately 2:30 AM. Despite efforts to save her, Ms. Tangey and her dog perished in the blaze, which police believe was a targeted attack linked to the illicit tobacco trade. However, authorities suspect the arsonists may have struck the wrong address.
“Investigators know Katie Tangey was completely innocent and had nothing to do with the illicit tobacco trade,” a police statement emphasized. The case has raised concerns about the ongoing violence associated with Melbourne's underworld, particularly regarding the illegal tobacco market.
Detective Inspector Murray addressed the media on April 3, 2025, urging anyone with information about the incident to step forward. He stated, “Safe to say, we will keep an open mind,” regarding potential connections to organized crime figures known to be involved in the illegal tobacco trade.
CCTV footage from the night of the incident shows two individuals exiting a dark vehicle, resembling a BMW X3 or X5, parked outside the townhouse shortly after 2 AM. Just before the fire engulfed the house, one of the men was seen carrying what appeared to be a jerry can. The footage captured the vehicle leaving the scene at 2:12 AM, heading north on Forsyth Road.
In a bid to gather more information, police have released a digital composite image of one of the suspects, described as having a Middle Eastern appearance, slim build, and aged between 25 and 30 years. Inspector Murray urged the public to come forward with any leads, stating, “If you recognize the man in the face-fit, have any knowledge of those involved or the location of the car, I cannot implore you enough to find it in yourself to do the right thing and come forward.”
In addition to the ongoing investigation, Victoria Police will hold an information caravan on Dover Street on the same day as the fire, aiming to reach out to residents and commuters who may have been in the area. This initiative is designed to encourage those who might have witnessed suspicious activity to provide crucial details.
Since the investigation began, police have received anonymous reports through Crime Stoppers, including one from a caller using a fake name. Investigators are particularly interested in reconnecting with this individual to gather further insights. “While we have been given information such as names, we believe these to be street names and not their formal identities,” Inspector Murray explained.
In the wake of this tragedy, friends and family of Kate Tangey have come forward to remember her as a vibrant and talented individual. Known for her performances under the stage name Vivien May-Royale, Tangey was celebrated in the burlesque community for her charisma and artistry. An online tribute described her as a “bright light, a magnificent glamour queen and a sweet, sweet person.”
“She was such an incredibly talented, wonderful person and powerhouse on stage,” one friend shared, expressing condolences to her mother, who was said to have been very close to her daughter. “May Vivien forever sparkle over us all from the other side.”
Inspector Murray reflected on the profound impact of Tangey’s death, stating, “Katie had just enough time to call triple-0, and she would have spent her final moments on her own, knowing she was going to die. It is an unimaginable horror I hope nobody else has to experience.”
The investigation into the arson attack continues, with police determined to uncover the truth behind this senseless act of violence. As the community mourns the loss of a beloved figure, authorities are hopeful that the release of the face-fit and the information caravan will lead to breakthroughs in the case.
“If you know anything – no matter how small, please, make the right choice for Katie and her family,” Inspector Murray urged, emphasizing the importance of community support in solving this tragic incident. As detectives work tirelessly to piece together the events leading to the fire, the hope remains that justice will be served for Kate Tangey and her family.
