Man Arrested in 1977 Collingwood Murders of Two Women
- Suzanne Armstrong and Susan Bartlett were found murdered in their Collingwood home on January 13, 1977.
- A 65-year-old man was arrested at Rome airport nearly 50 years later, and authorities are seeking his extradition to Australia.
- This arrest represents a significant breakthrough in a long-standing cold case that has deeply affected the victims' families and the community.
On January 13, 1977, Suzanne Armstrong and Susan Bartlett were discovered murdered in their shared home on Easey Street in Collingwood, Melbourne. The women had been brutally stabbed multiple times, and their tragic deaths shocked the local community. Armstrong's 16-month-old son was found unharmed in his cot, highlighting the horror of the crime. The investigation into the murders has been ongoing for nearly five decades, with the Homicide Squad prioritizing the case throughout the years. After years of tireless work, a significant breakthrough occurred when a 65-year-old man was arrested at Rome airport. This man holds dual citizenship in Australia and Greece, and authorities are now seeking his extradition to face charges in Australia. Chief Commissioner Shane Patton emphasized the emotional toll on the families of the victims, who have endured decades of grief while waiting for justice. In January 2017, police announced a $1 million reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the case, reflecting the ongoing commitment to solving this cold case. The investigation has spanned multiple continents, showcasing the dedication of law enforcement to bring closure to the families affected by this tragedy. As the investigation continues, the arrest marks a pivotal moment in a case that has haunted the community for years. The families of Armstrong and Bartlett may finally receive the answers they have long sought, and the police hope this development will lead to justice for the victims.