Tim Moreau & the Starry Night: Portland's Tragic Music Scene Murder

Tim Moreau & the Starry Night: Portland's Tragic Music Scene Murder

In the heart of Portland’s rock-and-roll scene, the story of Tim Moreau is a chilling testament to ambition, betrayal, and unanswered questions. For those looking to dive deeper into the case, listen to our companion episode: Episode 35: You've been lawyered! (Cat lawyered) - Tim Moreau & the Starry Night.

The Venue’s Legacy

The building at 8 NW 6th Avenue in Portland’s Old Town was originally erected in 1922 as a church before being converted into a concert venue. In 1982, the club reopened under the name Starry Night under owner Larry Hurwitz. The venue became known as the Roseland Theater in 1991 after a change in ownership.

The Disappearance of Tim Moreau

On January 23, 1990, 21-year-old Tim Moreau—then working at the club as a promotions manager—was last seen entering a meeting with Hurwitz. His car was later found abandoned at Portland International Airport, and checks, cash, and credit cards were left behind in his apartment.
By June 1990, police had classified the case as a homicide, though Tim’s body has never been found.

A Crime Unfolds

Investigators uncovered a counterfeit ticket scheme tied to Starry Night and its owner. Moreau was reportedly planning to expose the operation.
In 1998, former employee George Castagnola pleaded guilty in connection with Moreau’s murder, implicating Hurwitz. Two years later, Hurwitz pleaded no contest to aggravated murder and received a prison sentence. In 2001, Hurwitz settled a wrongful-death lawsuit with the Moreau family for $3 million.

Legacy & Haunting Echoes

Although the Roseland Theater still operates as one of Portland’s premier concert venues, the memory of Tim Moreau continues to linger. The site has even been listed among Portland’s reportedly haunted locations, with staff and visitors alike commenting on the venue’s eerie energy. Moreau’s family continues to seek closure, even as questions about the case remain unanswered.

Conclusion: A Note to Remember

Tim Moreau’s story is a haunting reminder of how dreams can collide with darkness. Though much about his death remains unresolved, his memory endures within Portland’s music scene and beyond. When you listen to our podcast episode, you’re not just hearing a mystery — you’re honoring a life cut short far too soon.