This is the headteacher of Epsom College who was found dead with her husband and seven-year-old daughter on the grounds of the school.
The bodies of headmistress Emma Pattison, 45, her daughter Lettie, seven, and her husband George, 39, were found when officers were called to the private school by the South East Coast Ambulance Service at about 1.10am on Sunday morning, Surrey Police said. An investigation has been launched, though police have stressed that they are confident they believe it was an 'isolated incident' with no third-party involvement.
The family's next of kin are being supported by specialist officers. Ms Pattison has been described as a 'wonderful teacher' and a 'delightful person, the Mirror reports.
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The school, comprised of 950-pupils, was named Independent School of the Year in 2022 and the headteacher was said to have had a 'distinguished career'. The Chair of the Board of Governors at Epsom College expressed 'disbelief' and 'utter shock' at the tragic news.
Dr Alastair Wells, Chair of the Board of Governors at Epsom College, said: "On behalf of everyone at Epsom College, I want to convey our utter shock and disbelief at this tragic news. Our immediate thoughts and condolences are with Emma’s family, friends and loved ones, and to the many pupils and colleagues whose lives she enriched throughout her distinguished career.
"Emma was a wonderful teacher, but most of all she was a delightful person. In time we will commemorate Emma and her family, in the appropriate way, and in line with the wishes of her family.
"But for now, we ask that we are all given the time, space and respect we need to come to terms with this tragic loss. There is currently a significant police presence at the location, and the surrounding area, and we would like to thank the local community for their understanding while our officers continue their investigation."
Detective Chief Inspector Kimball Edey said: "On behalf of Surrey Police, my team, and I, I first want to express my sincerest condolences to the friends and family of Emma, Lettie and George, as well as to the students and staff of Epsom College, for their tragic loss.
"I want to give my assurance that we will conduct a thorough investigation into what took place last night, and hope to be able to bring some peace in these traumatic circumstances. I would ask that their privacy is respected at this very difficult time."
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