A police watchdog has launched a probe into the death of a heavily pregnant teacher killed by her partner in a suspected murder-suicide.
Marelle Sturrock, 35, was 29 weeks pregnant when she was found dead in the couple’s home in Jura Street, Glasgow, on Tuesday morning.
The discovery of her body prompted a police search for her fiancé David Yates, 36, but his body was recovered from a reservoir within Mugdock Country Park, East Dunbartonshire, two days later.
Police are now understood to be facing an investigation over the couple’s deaths, The Daily Record reports.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: ‘As this is being investigated by the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC) we are unable to comment further.’
Marelle Sturrock, 35, was found dead two days before her partner David Yates in what police believe was a murder-suicide
Marelle Sturrock, 35, was 29 weeks pregnant when she was found dead in the couple’s home on Jura Street, Glasgow
Police Scotland officers outside the couple’s home in Jura Street, Glasgow, on Thursday
Further details of the PIRC probe have not been revealed.
Meanwhile, a source told the Daily Record: ‘It is thought to have been pre-planned because David brought the dog to his mum’s house the night before and told her he had plans the next day.
‘It is not being considered as an accident – it was a brutal, frenzied attack.’
Following the discovery of her body on Tuesday, Yates’ white Seat Ateca was found at Mugdock Country Park, some eight miles north of the couple’s property, sparking a major search.
He was last seen near Mugdock Country Park, just outside the city in East Dunbartonshire, and was wanted in connection with her murder. It is thought that Mr Yates did not leave the park after he travelled there.
His death is not being treated as suspicious.
Police maintain there is no information to suggest anyone else is involved with Ms Sturrock’s death, though an investigation remains ongoing.
Friends say she was ‘really excited’ about becoming a mother and was ‘brilliant with kids’.
But friends of Yates said he had struggled with his mental health in the past.
One said: ‘David had a bit of a breakdown before his dad died last year. He was in a band for a few years and wanted to make a go of that and he was still doing his theatre shows and things. Nobody can get their heads around what has happened here.’
She had worked as a teacher at Sandwood Primary School for more than six years and led its choirs. She was also a keen actress outside the school.
Fiona Donnelly, the headteacher of Sandwood Primary School, said: ‘Marelle had 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.
Marelle Sturrock, 35, pictured with her fiance David Yates, 36
‘We all miss her so much. She was a lovely, kind, diligent and considerate person who loved and made time for everyone.
‘Marelle used her artistic talents across the school and was our music champion who has been a key player in the success of our school choirs; with one of her classes going to see her on stage at The King’s in one of her many acting roles outside of school.
‘We are a school community in mourning and devastated by the tragic news of her death.’
It is understood the couple got engaged in 2015.
According to neighbours, the couple would sometimes visit Mugdock Country Park to walk their dog.
Neighbour Alex Collie said his wife had spotted Ms Sturrock’s worried colleagues at the house on Tuesday morning.
He told the Daily Record: ‘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.
Police pictured searching Mugdock Country park, Milngavie, Scotland, prior to the discovery of Mr Yates
‘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.’
Pupils at Sandwood Primary School are being supported after the tragedy.
Deputy Superintendent Nicola Kilbane, of Police Scotland, said in a statement: ‘Our thoughts are with Marelle’s family and friends, along with everyone affected by this tragedy.
‘We are providing her family with specialist support at this incredibly difficult time.’