Cops hunt missing fiancé as pregnant teacher found dead after school no-show
A PREGNANT teacher was found dead in her home – as cops sealed off a park in the hunt for her missing fiancé.
Marelle Sturrock, 35, was discovered on Tuesday at the flat in Glasgow she shared with partner David Yates, 36.
Officers confirmed last night they were treating the death as suspicious as they continued to comb Mugdock Country Park in the search for Yates.
Marelle was found dead at her home after worried colleagues called cops when she didn’t show up for school, neighbours revealed.
In an update tonight, police confirmed they were treating the death as suspicious and said they were supporting Marelle’s family.
It’s understood the mum-to-be lived in the property with fiancé Yates – who was yesterday the focus of a missing person search.
Marelle, 35 – due to give birth in the summer – was a highly popular teacher at nearby Sandwood Primary.
Her death has shattered the school community – with parents expressing their grief on social media.
Shocked locals told how they understood it was talented actress Marelle’s colleagues who raised the alarm early on Tuesday.
Officers then found her body at 8.40am.
Neighbour Alex Collie 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 lives when we heard what had happened to Marelle. It’s tragic. I can’t believe it.”
Following the tragic body find, officers sealed off parts of Mugdock Country Park in Milngavie, around nine miles away, as they hunted Marelle’s partner.
He is currently being treated as a missing person.
It’s understood the couple got engaged in 2015 and lived with their pet dog.
A cordon was set up at several pathways around the loch with dog walkers and park users directed away from the scene.
Nearby woodland was also being searched as a police helicopter patrolled overhead.
Two officers stood guard at a section of track across the water from Mugdock Castle where cops in forensic suits could be seen searching through the undergrowth.
A mobile police unit remains at the scene.
A walker, who asked not to be named, said: “I come here a lot and that’s the first time I’ve seen police here.
“It’s quite a disturbing sight to see the place taped off like that but it’s obviously something very serious.
“It’s such a lovely park and it’s sad to think something tragic may have happened here.”
The park featured in several snaps the couple had posted on social media.
Marelle’s final Facebook post on Sunday showed her posing happily with pals while having a meal in Glasgow.
Families of pupils who attend Sandwood Primary School were sent a letter informing them of the horror news.
Headteacher Fiona Donnelly wrote: “It is with deep sorrow that I must inform you about the sudden death of Ms Sturrock who is a beloved member of our teaching staff.
“I know that this will come as a shock to our school community, and we will do all that we can to support children, staff and families through what will be a difficult and challenging time.
“I hope that you will understand that there are no other details that I can share at this time but wanted to let our families know the tragic news from the school.”
Marelle is understood to have left the Highlands when she was 17 to study musical theatre in Glasgow.
She later pursued her career as a teacher.
Devastated parents of pupils yesterday paid tribute to her on social media following the tragedy.
Sharon Lang wrote: “She taught our children picked them up when they fell encouraged them & taught them to believe in themselves, it’s devastating she never got the chance to do the same with her own wee baby.”
Leona Irvine wrote: “Absolutely heartbreaking such a beautiful soul.
“Thank you for teaching our children”
Joanne Zoch said: “My daughter’s favourite teacher from primary school, such a kind and wonderful teacher. So sad.
“My love to all the family and all the staff at Sandwood primary.”
Annemarie Simpson said: “Absolutely heartbreaking the loss of two precious lives.
“Thoughts and prayers go to her family at this unimaginably awful time.”
Tonight officers continued to stand guard outside the property and a cordon remained in place.
Around lunchtime two detectives arrived and put on white overalls, face masks and blue gloves, before going inside to continue their investigation.
Detective Chief Inspector Cheryl Kelly 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.
“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.”
We pay for your stories and videos! Do you have a story or video for The Scottish Sun? Email us at scoop@thesun.co.uk or call 0141 420 5200