Police have launched a murder inquiry following the death of a pregnant Scots teacher Marelle Sturrock.
Marelle, 35, was discovered at her flat in Jura Street on Tuesday morning after she failed to turn up for work at Sandwood Primary School in Glasgow. Police have now confirmed they are treating her death as murder.
Detective Superintendent Nicola Kilbane said: “A murder investigation is ongoing in relation to the death of Marelle Sturrock, 35, at Jura Street in Glasgow. Officers attended her home address shortly after 8.40am on Tuesday, 25 April and she was pronounced dead at the scene. Marelle was 29 weeks pregnant and I can confirm that sadly her unborn baby did not survive.
“Our thoughts are with Marelle’s family and friends, along with everyone affected by this tragedy. We are providing her family with specialist support at this incredibly difficult time.
“Her partner David Yates is wanted in connection with Marelle’s death. At this time we have no information to suggest anyone else has been involved.
“His vehicle, a white Seat Ateca, was found at Mugdock Country Park on Tuesday and an extensive search has been ongoing in the area since.
“The last confirmed sighting of David was on Sunday evening shortly after 8pm. His subsequent movements are unknown after his vehicle was left at Mugdock Country Park but there is nothing to suggest he has left the area. We will keep an open mind on this as we continue to search the area.
“A visible police presence will remain at both Jura Street and Mugdock Country Park as our investigation continues.
“There is not believed to be any risk to the wider public. However, I would urge anyone with information or concerns to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident 0904 of 25 April or speak to any of our officers.
“Finally, I would like once again to express our condolences to Marelle’s family and everyone affected by this tragic incident.”
Police divers are currently searching a reservoir at Mugdock Country Park as they continue attempts to locate Marelle's partner. Units were seen arriving at Drumclog Moor car park on Thursday afternoon.
A stack of red kayaks and specialist equipment was unloaded from a police van. Mugdock Country Park has a lake, Loch Mugdock, at its centre, and two major reservoirs, the Mugdock and Craigmaddie Reservoirs, to the south-east.
Police cordons remain in place at some entrances to the park.
The local community is still coming to terms with the news of Marelle's passing. Fiona Donnelly, headteacher at Sandwood Primary, said she had been a "much-loved member of our school community".
Ms Donnelly added: "We will all miss her so much. She was a lovely, kind, diligent and considerate person who loved and made time for everyone. “We are a school community in mourning and are devastated 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."
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