In short:
Police believe a fatal Truganina fire that killed Katie Tangey was a mistaken arson attack linked to the illicit tobacco trade. A $500,000 reward is now being offered for information.
$500K reward announced in fire death
Victoria Police have announced a $500,000 reward for information regarding the fatal Truganina house fire that claimed the life of Katie Tangey six months ago.
Emergency services responded to a fire on Dover Street around 2.30am on 16 January. CCTV captured two people exiting a dark-coloured vehicle, believed to be similar to a BMW X3 or X5, before a large explosion engulfed the home.
The 27-year-old victim, Katie Tangey, was house sitting for her brother and his wife. She managed to call triple zero, reporting the house was on fire, but tragically died at the scene alongside the family’s golden retriever, Sonny. The three-storey townhouse was destroyed.
Moments after the explosion, two men were seen fleeing. One of them appeared to be carrying a jerry can. Their vehicle was later seen travelling north on Forsyth Road at about 2.12am.
Detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad, supported by Taskforce Lunar, believe the fire was deliberately lit as part of the ongoing illicit tobacco dispute. Police say the property was likely targeted by mistake.
“Katie was completely innocent and had no connection to the illicit tobacco trade,” police confirmed.
In April, investigators released a computer-generated image of a man they wish to speak to. The image was compiled using enhanced CCTV footage.
Police hope the $500,000 reward will prompt someone to come forward with critical information to help solve the case.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a report.
