1977 Collingwood Double Murder Nears Trial

A committal hearing in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court is underway for 66-year-old Perry Kouroumblis, who was arrested in Italy last year and is charged with the 1977 double murders of Suzanne Armstrong and Susan Bartlett in a Collingwood share house. Prosecutors allege the then‑17‑year‑old stabbed Armstrong 29 times, including wounds to the liver and heart, and Bartlett 55 times, including wounds to the stomach and liver, and that Armstrong was raped. Police say DNA allegedly linking Kouroumblis — including material tied to his old car — was found at the scene. Neighbours Ilona Miklosvary (formerly Stevens) and Janet Powell described finding Bartlett in the hallway and Armstrong in a pool of blood, while former officers Douglas Carroll and Gary Looker gave evidence about the horrific scene and possible blood washing. Defence barrister Dermot Dann has sought suppression of some allegations and limits on reporting DNA evidence, and Kouroumblis has indicated he will plead not guilty; Magistrate Brett Sonnet will decide whether there is sufficient evidence to send the matter to trial.