A popular performer who was killed in a fire in what police say was a case of mistaken identity has been deemed an "icon" as her friends rallied to raise funds for her heartbroken family.

Katie Tangey, 27, died after becoming trapped while looking after her brother's three-storey townhouse in Truganina, in Melbourne's west, on Thursday morning.

A Hoppers Cross woman identified as a popular burlesque performer died in a fire after she sought help from emergency services on Friday.

The burlesque community took to social media to remember Tangey, who performed under the name Vivien May-Royale.

"Our hearts are broken, there is a very big hole that will be felt in our industry," apprentice Victoria wrote on Facebook.

"Vale Vivien May-Royale, our hearts are with your family and we will continue to celebrate you and your sparkling life."

Friend Charney Hyde has joined forces with other members of Melbourne's burlesque community to raise funds for Tangey's family after her life was "tragically ended".

"Proceeds will be donated directly to Katie's mother, Tracy, to support her living expenses and funeral expenses during this time of overwhelming grief," Hyde wrote on the GoFundMe page.

"Katie/Vive...we love you so much. You are a force, an icon, a star and a wonderful friend."

So far, the fundraiser has reached more than $7,000 of its $10,000 goal.

A spokesman for the University of Victoria, where Tangi worked, said she was a "valued and respected" member of staff.

"We are deeply saddened by this news and extend our sincere condolences to her family, friends and colleagues," she said.

Melbourne media and production company 3 Fates Media said Tangey's death was "incomprehensible".

"A beautiful woman was taken from this earth too soon," the Facebook post read.

“Our hearts are heavy as we all grieve for our sister Katie Lee (Vivian May-Royal) and her loving family, but we remember her now and will always remember her as A bright, shining star.”

Police said Tanguy's death is being treated as a homicide because two people were seen getting out of a car and pouring accelerant into the house before it was engulfed in flames.

"This man was completely innocent and did not deserve to die," Detective Inspector Chris Murray said Thursday.

"We don't have the history of this person and we don't have the history of this family."

Tanguy had been looking after the house for her brother while he was on his honeymoon.

One dog is missing, but the detective said he didn't expect the pet to survive.

Police believe the perpetrators targeted the wrong address.

"She was subjected to the most egregious, despicable behavior one could imagine," Murray said.

Police will increase patrols in the area but will not issue a safety alert to the wider community.