A pregnant teacher was pictured enjoying a dinner out with friends just hours before she was found dead at her home with police treating the death as “suspicious” as they continue to hunt for a missing man.
Marelle Sturrock was discovered dead after police were called to a property on Jura Street in Govan amid concern for a person at 8.40am on Tuesday.
The teacher, originally from Wick in Caithness, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Officers have now confirmed that her death is being treated as suspicious.
The 35-year-old’s colleagues raised concern for her safety on Tuesday morning after she reportedly failed to show up at work.
Marella a teacher at Glasgow’s Sandwood Primary School, lived with her fiance David Yates, with the pair getting engaged in 2015, reported The Sun.
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.
Friend Alec Nicholson paid tribute to Marelle, saying she was 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.
"She really was the very last person anyone could ever want to come to harm. Just a lovely, lovely girl."
An investigation has been launched with Police Scotland confirming the death is being treated as suspicious.
It comes as investigators say the death is linked to an ongoing search for a missing person at Mugdock Country Park - nine miles from where Ms Sturrock was found.
Detective Chief Inspector Cheryl Kelly confirmed the incidents are linked.
She said: “Our thoughts are with Marelle’s family and friends, as well as everyone affected by this tragic incident.
“We are providing her family with support at this incredibly difficult time as our investigation to establish the full circumstances continues.”
“A visible police presence will remain at both locations as our work continues," DCI Kelly added.
“There is not believed to be any risk to the wider public but 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.”
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."
