The family of a heavily pregnant teacher murdered along with her unborn son has revealed its devastation at the death of the “happiest person you could meet”.
Marelle Sturrock, 35, was found dead at a property in Glasgow last Tuesday when she failed to show up for work at Sandwood Primary School.
Police investigating her murder launched a search for her fiancé, David Yates, and later found him dead at Mugdock Reservoir in circumstances they described as “not suspicious”.
Now, a week after Marelle’s shocking death, her family has released a statement through Scotland Police, and revealed the unborn boy's name was Jayden.
Her 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."
Sturrock and Yates had first met in September 2011 and their baby was due in June.
Her unborn child was also tragically found not to have survived.
One person who knew Yates described him as "very quiet", and added: "I know he lost his dad last year and his dog also died at New Year."
Tributes flooded in for Marelle, including from friend Alec Nicholson, who 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.
"It’s very shocking and we’re all struggling to comprehend how it’s possible. Just a lovely, lovely girl."
She was originally from Wick in the Scottish Highlands, but moved to Glasgow aged 17 to pursue a career in the performing arts.
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.
"We will all miss her so much. She was a lovely, kind, diligent and considerate person who loved and made time for everyone."
