A MURDER investigation has been launched into the death of a pregnant teacher as police search for her partner.
Police Scotland confirmed the death of Marelle Sturrock, 35, in Glasgow on Tuesday is being treated as murder.
She was 29 weeks pregnant and her unborn baby did not survive.
Police Scotland said in a statement: “Her partner David Yates is wanted in connection with Marelle’s death.”
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."
Kilbane said that Sturrock was 29 weeks pregnant and confirmed that sadly the unborn baby did not survive.
“Our thoughts are with Marelle’s family and friends, along with everyone affected by this tragedy," Kilbane added.
"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."
Kilbane said the last confirmed sighting of Yates was on Sunday just 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," she said.
“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.”
Officers were seen searching Mugdock Country Park and Mugdock reservoir on Thursday, just outside the city in East Dunbartonshire, for a missing man, understood to be Yates.
Police divers have been involved in the search and large areas of the reservoir are cordoned off with police tape, with officers standing guard.
The headteacher at Sandwood Primary School in Glasgow where Sturrock worked said the school community is “devastated”.
Sturrock was from Wick, Caithness, but moved to Glasgow when she was 17 to pursue a career in the performing arts.
She later became a primary school teacher after completing her postgraduate diploma in education.
