Detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad are today announcing a $500K reward for information in relation to the fatal house fire which killed Katie Tangey in Truganina six months ago.
Emergency services were initially called to reports of a fire at a residential property on Dover Street about 2.30am on Thursday, 16 January.
Shortly after 2am on Thursday, 16 January, two people were captured on CCTV getting out of a dark coloured vehicle - similar to a BMW X3 or X5 - parked outside the address.
A significant explosion then occurs and the pair leave the area.
The 27-year-old woman, who was inside the house at the time, then calls triple zero (000) to say the home was engulfed in fire.
Katie was housesitting the property which belongs to her brother and his wife.
She and the family's golden retriever, Sonny, died at the scene and the three-storey townhouse was completely destroyed.
The dark coloured vehicle is then captured on CCTV travelling north on Forsyth Road in Truganina at approximately 2.12am.
A ring camera at the Dover Street house also captures the moment the house is engulfed, before two men, one carrying what appears to be a jerry can, flee the scene.
Over the past six months a significant investigation has taken place to determine the motivation for the attack and who was responsible.
Arson and Explosives Squad detectives have been working closely with Taskforce Lunar after confirming in February that Victoria Police is of the belief that this arson attack was likely linked to the illicit tobacco dispute.
Information received suggests it was a targeted attack but at the wrong address.
Investigators know Katie was completely innocent and had nothing to do with the illicit tobacco trade.
In April, investigators released a digital composite image of a man they would like to speak to in relation to the investigation.
The image of the man's face was compiled using CCTV footage which has been enhanced.
He is described as Middle Eastern in appearance, aged between 25-30 years old and with a slim build.
An information caravan was also held on 3 April in the area where the tragic incident occurred.
A search warrant was then executed at a residential address in Dandenong on 12 June.
Investigators seized a number of mobile phones which are currently undergoing forensic analysis.
Via anonymous reports to Crime Stoppers police were provided information, including a particular call where a name has been given of a pseudonym or nickname. Investigators are still urging this particular caller to make further contact and provide additional information.
Detectives are particularly keen to hear from anyone who recognises the man in the image or has any further information on the nickname provided.
The investigation remains ongoing.
A reward of up to $500K will be paid at the discretion of the Chief Commissioner of Police, for information leading to the apprehension and subsequent conviction of the person or persons responsible for the death of Katie Tangey.
The Director of Public Prosecutions will consider, according to established guidelines, the granting of indemnification from prosecution to any person who provides information as to the identity of the principal offender or offenders in this matter.
Any information given will be treated as confidential and may be given at any time to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Quotes attributable to Detective Inspector Chris Murray, Arson & Explosives Squad:
"Those responsible for Katie's death know they targeted the wrong house and they have to live with the knowledge that they are responsible for the horrific death of a completely innocent young woman.
"We believe we know who directed this crime, and we know we are getting closer to proving who was responsible for carrying it out on the night.
"$500K is a lot of money - hopefully it will encourage those people out there who do know something to do the right thing and come forward. Katie's family deserve answers.
"These people need to be held accountable for the fact they committed a crime which ultimately led to the death of a young woman who had her whole life ahead of her.
"I'd ask how these people can live with themselves knowing they've done that and I would ask how people who know what the offenders have done, how they can live with this knowledge and not come forward and assist police.
"This investigation remains a priority for Victoria Police. We know there are people in the community who have inside knowledge of the planning and directing as well as the identity of those who took part in the arson. We are doing everything we can to locate those people and hold them to account."
