The parents of a pregnant school teacher who was murdered have paid tribute to their daughter and have revealed she was expecting a baby boy.
Police launched a murder investigation after the body of Marelle Sturrock, 35, was found at her home in Jura Street, Glasgow, on the morning of Tuesday, April 25.
She was 29 weeks pregnant and her unborn baby did not survive. The body of her partner David Yates, who police had been seeking in connection with her death, was recovered on Thursday after searches of Mugdock reservoir, north of Glasgow.
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His death is not being treated as suspicious. Police said he was wanted in connection with the death of his partner, and that while an investigation is continuing there is nothing to suggest anyone else was involved.
Marelle's parents have now issued a statement paying tribute to their daughter. They also said Marelle had been pregnant with a boy called Jayden.
In a statement released through Police Scotland, Ms Sturrock’s parents, Colin and Lorna Sturrock, said: “We are devastated following the deaths of our daughter, Marelle, and soon to be grandson, Jayden Sturrock.
“Marelle was the happiest person you could ever meet and was always looking to help others the best she could. Marelle and her partner doted on each other and this incident has come as a total shock to all who knew her.
“We would like to thank family and friends, colleagues at Sandwood Primary School, Police Scotland officers, both in the Highlands and Glasgow, for their efforts and comforting support following our tragic event.
“Our family would like everyone, including the press, to respect our privacy at this very sad and difficult time.”
Ms Sturrock was from Wick, Caithness, but moved to Glasgow when she was 17 to pursue a career in the performing arts. She became a primary school teacher after completing a postgraduate diploma in education.
Ms Surrock worked at Sandwood Primary School in Glasgow. Parents at the school were told of the death in a letter on Wednesday and education psychologists are on hand to support pupils.
Headteacher Fiona Donnelly said: “Marelle has been a much-loved member of our school community since her probationary year more than six years ago and has taught many year groups throughout her time at the school.
“We will all miss her so much. She was a lovely, kind, diligent and considerate person who loved and made time for everyone.
“Marelle used her artistic talents across the school and was our music champion who has been a key player in the success of our school choirs, with one of her classes going to see her on stage at The King’s (Theatre) in one of her many acting roles outside of school.
“We are a school community in mourning and are devasted by the tragic news of her death and pass on our deepest condolences to her family and friends as we all come to terms with our loss.”
Last week the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner, the watchdog for Police Scotland, said it has launched a probe into Ms Sturrock’s death.
A spokesman said: “The Crown Office and the Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) has instructed the Pirc to carry out an investigation into the death of Marelle Sturrock on 25 April 2023 within 91 Jura Street, Glasgow.
“Once our inquires are complete a report will be submitted to COPFS.”
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