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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Abigail O'Leary

Man wanted for murder of his teacher fiancée is found dead in reservoir

A body found by police investigating the murder of pregnant teacher Marelle Sturrock has been formally identified as that of her partner David Yates.

Yates was wanted in connection with 35-year-old Marelle's murder.

A statement from Police Scotland said: “The body of a man recovered yesterday following searches of Mugdock Reservoir has now been formally identified as 36-year-old David Yates. His death is not being treated as suspicious.

“Yates was wanted in connection with the murder of his partner Marelle Sturrock. The 35-year-old was found dead at her home on Jura Street, Glasgow on Tuesday, 25 April, 2023."

Ms Sturrock, who was 29 weeks pregnant, was discovered at an address on Glasgow on Tuesday morning after colleagues raised the alarm when she didn't show up to her job as a primary school teacher.

Her unborn child was also tragically found not to have survived.

Colleagues raised the alarm when Marelle didn't show up for work (Facebook)

Paying tribute to Ms Sturrock on Thursday, friend Alec Nicholson described her as an "exceptionally beautiful" and "kind" person.

He told the Mirror: "She was just an exceptionally beautiful human. I mean, of course, anyone would say that about someone whose loss they’re mourning, but she really was incredibly special. So beautiful, so talented, but so kind."

He added: "It’s very shocking and we’re all struggling to comprehend how it’s possible. Just a lovely, lovely girl."

Marelle Sturrock, 35, was discovered dead after officers were called to a property on Jura Street in Govan at 8.40am on Tuesday (Facebook)
Marelle Sturrock, 35, was discovered dead after officers were called to a property on Jura Street in Govan (Facebook)

Ms Sturrock was originally from Wick in the Scottish Highlands, but moved to Glasgow aged 17 to pursue a career in the performing arts.

The singer posted regular videos on social media of her performing songs, creating an online community for other performers to share their talents.

Fiona Donnelly, headteacher of Sandwood Primary School where she worked, 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.

Ms Sturrock, who was 29 weeks pregnant (Facebook)

"We will all miss her so much. She was a lovely, kind, diligent and considerate person who loved and made time for everyone."

Marelle was pictured enjoying a dinner out with friends just hours before she was found dead at her home.

Marelle had shared a photo on social media the night before where she was seen smiling with friends as they sat at a restaurant table and were looking at the menus.

Neighbour Alex Collie told the Daily Record his wife saw the expectant mum's worried colleagues at her house on Tuesday.

He said: “My wife walked past when they were at the house. They were knocking on the door and seemed worried. I think concern was raised when she didn’t show up for work.

"A few hours later we saw the police here. We got the shock of our life when we heard what had happened to Marelle. It’s tragic. I can’t believe it."

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