Man, 65, arrested in Rome over Easey St murders that took place 47 years ago

The families of two women who were murdered in their Collingwood home 47 years ago said it has always been “impossible” for them to understand the “needless and violent” manner in which the women died.

Suzanne Armstrong, 27, and Susan Bartlett, 28, were found dead in their Easey St home in Collingwood on January 13, 1977.

The women, who were last seen alive three days earlier, had been stabbed multiple times.

Ms Armstrong had a 16-month-old son who was found unharmed in his cot by police when they located the bodies of the two women.

After nearly 50 years, authorities on Thursday night arrested a 65-year-old man in Rome in connection to the brutal murders.

Police are seeking to extradite the Australian-Greek citizen to Australia.

In a statement, the women’s families said the violent circumstances of their deaths were impossible for “two quiet families from country Victoria” to comprehend.

“The gravity of the circumstances surrounding their deaths changed our lives irrevocably,” they said.

“We will be forever grateful for the support and understanding shown to us by our friends and family over the past 47 years.

The families praised the “perseverance and dedication” of Victoria Police officers and investigators who “tirelessly pursued answers and justice for us over such a long period of time”.

“For always giving us hope and never giving up, we simply say, thank you,” the families said.

Chief Commissioner Shane Patton said the Easey St murders have always been a priority for Victoria Police.

“This was a crime that struck at the heart of our community – two women in their own home, where they should have felt their safest,” he said.

“While we still have some way to go, this arrest is an important breakthrough.

“I also want to recognise the enduring resilience of both the Armstrong and Bartlett families, who have grieved for over four decades and no doubt this will be a very emotional time for them.

“I hope this arrest brings you closer to the answers you so richly deserve and have waited so long for.”

The chief commissioner thanked officers from homicide squad and specialist staff who have all “been wholly committed to finding answers and holding those responsible for these deaths to account.”

In January 2017, police announced a $1m reward for information that led to the arrest and conviction of any one responsible for the deaths of the women.

The investigation remains ongoing and anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

More to come.