Collingwood School Connection Uncovered in Easey Street Murders Case

Perry Kouroumblis, 65, apprehended by authorities in Italy, was once a student at Collingwood High School, now known as Collingwood College. This very school was where Susan Bartlett, one of the victims brutally murdered on Easey Street, dedicated her time as an arts and crafts teacher.

Easey Street Murders: Suspect Attended School Where Victim Taught, Arrest Made After 47 Years

In a chilling twist to the Easey Street murders case, the man arrested in Italy has a connection to one of the victims that dates back to their time at Collingwood High School. Perry Kouroumblis, 65, suspected in the brutal unsolved killings that shook Victoria, was once a student at the school, now known as Collingwood College. Susan Bartlett, one of the victims, was employed there as an arts and crafts teacher during Kouroumblis's time as a student.

This revelation adds another layer of complexity to a case that has haunted Melbourne for nearly five decades. It's been 47 years since the bodies of Bartlett and her housemate, Suzanne Armstrong, were discovered in their Collingwood terrace cottage, a scene made even more horrific by the presence of Armstrong's 16-month-old son, who survived alone in his cot for days.

The brutal nature of the killings – Armstrong had been sexually assaulted and both women suffered multiple stab wounds – and the image of the crying toddler left an indelible mark on the city, sparking fear and an enduring mystery. For years, the investigation seemed at a standstill, despite police pursuing over 130 persons of interest.

However, several years ago, Kouroumblis was identified as a suspect. As a dual Australian-Greek citizen, he had been residing in Greece, a country with a statute of limitations on murder charges. This legal constraint meant authorities had to wait for Kouroumblis to leave Greece before an arrest could be made. That opportunity arose last Thursday when he arrived at Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport in Italy. An Interpol Red Notice was activated, leading to his arrest.

Victorian and federal authorities are currently navigating the complexities of extradition, a process expected to take at least a month. While this arrest marks a significant step towards potential justice, the investigation remains open. Police continue to urge anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward.

For the families of Armstrong and Bartlett, this development offers a glimmer of hope after decades of agonizing uncertainty. In a statement, they expressed gratitude to the police for their relentless dedication and shared their hope for a semblance of closure after all these years.

Italian Arrest Brings Hope for Justice in 47-Year-Old Easey Street Murders