Katie Tangey, a 27-year-old burlesque performer known as Vivien May-Royale, died after an arson attack on a townhouse in Truganina, Melbourne, on Thursday morning. Police believe the attack was a case of mistaken identity, with the offenders targeting the wrong address.
Tangey was house-sitting for her brother, who was on his honeymoon, when two individuals poured accelerant inside the three-storey property and set it alight. She called emergency services but did not survive. A dog is also unaccounted for and is not expected to have survived.
Detective Inspector Chris Murray described the act as 'the most appalling, despicable act one could imagine,' adding that Tangey was 'completely innocent and should not have died.' Police patrols in the area have been increased, but no wider safety alert has been issued.
Friends and the burlesque community have paid tribute to Tangey, with The Apprentease Victoria calling her 'an icon' and 'a bright, shining star.' A GoFundMe page set up by friend Chanie Hyde has raised over $7,000 of its $10,000 goal to support Tangey's mother with living expenses and funeral costs.
Victoria University, where Tangey worked, described her as a 'valued and respected' member of staff, extending condolences to her family and friends. The investigation into the homicide continues.
