The mother of a 27-year-old woman killed in a suspected case of mistaken identity in Melbourne has expressed that her “heart will be forever broken.”
Katie Tangey was housesitting for her brother while he was on honeymoon when flames engulfed the three-storey building on Dover Street in Truganina around 2 AM yesterday.
Authorities suspect that two men poured accelerant into the home before igniting it while Tangey was inside.
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Her mother, Tracey Tangey, confirmed today that her “beautiful baby girl” was killed in the tragic attack.
“I am completely broken and don’t know how we are going to heal from this devastating news. If you could all remember our beautiful soul in your own way,” she wrote in a heartfelt social media message.
“Rest my baby bub mum loves you more than you will ever know. You are and always will be my best friend and the love of my life. My heart will be forever broken.”
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Tangey was a burlesque performer known by the stage name Vivien May-Royale, who had won the hearts of many in Melbourne’s art scene.
Her friends and peers have paid tribute to her online today.
“Katie was a bright light, a magnificent glamour queen, and a sweet, sweet person,” wrote Gemma Sheree.
“I adored her. Phoenix Burlesque adored her. And we loved her relationship with her beautiful fierce mum, Tracey Tangey. Katie’s family is beyond devastated,” added Cherry Charleston.
“The devastating loss of the iconic Vivian Mae Royale – Katie Lee is shattering. All the love for Tracey Tangey in this. She was loved by all of us, but that was just a grain of sand compared to the love between the two of you. She will be so missed,” expressed Icky K Spriggins.
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Police are actively searching for the two men believed to be behind this arson attack.
CCTV footage captured the suspects parking a dark-colored car outside the residence before exiting and pouring accelerant into the property.
This targeted attack is presumed to be a case of mistaken identity.
“This individual is completely innocent and should not have died. We have no history on this individual nor the family,” stated Arson and Explosives Squad Detective Inspector Chris Murray during a press briefing yesterday.
“These offenders have targeted the wrong address, which is nothing short of a tragedy.”
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“What I will say to the offenders, whether they meant this or not, we are investigating a homicide now.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has CCTV or dashcam footage, is urged to contact law enforcement.
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