Perry Kouroumblis, 65, who was previously living in Italy, has been extradited to Australia in relation to the 1977 murders of Suzanne Armstrong and Susan Bartlett. With advancements in DNA evidence, Kouroumblis has emerged as a prime suspect in this longstanding cold case, which has captivated the Australian public for nearly half a century.
Extradition Achieved: Key Suspect in 1977 Australian Cold Case Returns from Italy
Extradition Achieved: Key Suspect in 1977 Australian Cold Case Returns from Italy
Perry Kouroumblis, sought in connection with the infamous murders of two women in Melbourne, has been extradited back to Australia after decades.
Perry Kouroumblis, a 65-year-old Australian man, is set to return to Australia following his extradition from Italy, where he has been living for several years. He is a suspect in what is known as the Easey Street murders— a case that has remained unsolved since the brutal stabbing deaths of two young women, Suzanne Armstrong and Susan Bartlett, in Melbourne in 1977.
The murders captured national attention when the bodies of Armstrong, 27, and Bartlett, 28, were discovered in their home, three days after they were last seen. Their tragic deaths, characterized by extreme violence, have led to various police appeals, true crime literature, and a well-followed podcast over the years, maintaining public interest in the case.
Kouroumblis, who has not yet been charged and maintains his innocence, was first identified by authorities shortly after the murders. As a teenager, he alleged he found a bloodied knife near the crime scene. It wasn't until advancements in DNA testing that he became a central focus of the investigation, prompting Interpol to issue a red notice against him due to charges that included murder and rape.
In a significant turn of events, Kouroumblis was arrested in Rome in September after police efforts finally bore fruit. Victoria Police Commissioner Shane Patton described the nature of the crime as "gruesome" and pointed to its profound impact on the affected families and the community as a whole.
The families of the victims reflected on the enduring trauma caused by the incident, expressing their gratitude to law enforcement for their tireless efforts to keep the case alive despite the years that have passed. The police also offered a substantial reward for information regarding the case, highlighting the deep-rooted desire for justice in this heartbreaking situation. As Kouroumblis arrives back in Australia, there is hope for a resolution to a cold case that has haunted many for decades.
