A woman found dead in Glasgow yesterday has been named as a Caithness teacher.
Police were called to her home address on Jura Street yesterday following “concern for a person”, and found a 35-year-old woman’s body.
She has now been named by police as Marelle Sturrock, from Wick.
Mum-to-be Miss Sturrock’s death is being treated as suspicious and inquiries are ongoing.
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.”
Incidents treated as linked
It is understood her boyfriend is missing, and a search is ongoing for him – with officers sealing off a park in the Mugdock Country Park in Milngavie.
Police have confirmed the search activity is being treated as linked to the death of Miss Sturrock.
However, they said they do not believe there is any risk to the wider public.
Detective Chief Inspector Kelly added: “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 on 101, quoting incident 0904 of 25 April or speak to any of our officers.”
Pursued love of musical theatre in Glasgow
Miss Sturrock moved from Caithness to Glasgow in her late teens to pursue a career in the performing arts.
The University West of Scotland musical theatre student went on to do a lot of work with Glasgow Music Theatre and Eastwood Entertainers.
Over the years, she played lead roles such as Carmen in Fame, Ariel in Footloose and Rosalia in West Side Story.
During this time, she had the opportunity to teach other performers and discovered a love of teaching.
She pursued this passion by becoming a primary school teacher in Glasgow at Sandwood Primary School.
Tributes paid to ‘beloved member of teaching staff’
Families of pupils at the school were sent a letter from the headteacher, Fiona Donnelly, which shared the news of Miss Sturrock’s death.
The letter stated: “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.”
‘A lovely lassie’
Online tributes from loved ones and families of pupils have described Miss Sturrock as a “lovely lassie” and great teacher.
On social media, Ann Taylor described the teacher as a “lovely young lady” while Claire Fraser from Wick stated: “Such awful sad news.
“Marelle was such a lovely lassie, so talented and about to be a mumma. Heart breaks for her whole family.”
Leonna McNeill Irvine commented: “Absolutely heart-breaking. Such a beautiful soul. Thank you for teaching our children.”
Anyone with information about Miss Sturrock’s death should call 101, quoting incident 0904 of April 25.
