The devastated parents of murdered mum-to-be Marelle Sturrock have paid tribute, saying she was “always looking to help others”.
The 35-year-old primary teacher from Wick was found dead at her home in Glasgow last Tuesday.
Miss Sturrock was 29 weeks pregnant at the time. Her baby did not survive.
A major investigation was launched to trace her fiance David Yates, who was wanted in connection with the murder.
He was found dead at the Mugdock Reservoir two days later following an extensive search operation.
The police watchdog, the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC), has since launched an investigation into Miss Sturrock’s death.
Incident came as ‘total shock’ to parents
Parents Colin and Lorna Sturrock have today paid tribute to their daughter and unborn grandson Jayden.
They released a statement through police, saying: “We are devastated following the deaths of our daughter, Marelle, and soon-to-be grandson, Jayden Sturrock.
“Marelle was the happiest person you could ever meet and was always looking to help others the best she could.
“Marelle and her partner doted on each other, and this incident has come as a total shock to all who knew her.
“We would like to thank family and friends, colleagues at Sandwood Primary School, police officers, both in the Highlands and Glasgow, for their efforts and comforting support following our tragic event.
“Our family would like everyone, including the press, to respect our privacy at this very sad and difficult time.”
Wick teacher’s colleagues and friends pay tribute
Police spent several days searching Mugdock Country Park – nine miles away from Miss Sturrock’s home on Jura Street in Glasgow – to locate Yates.
The 36-year-old was last seen the night before Miss Sturrock was found dead, with sniffer dogs and a police diving team spotted searching the area around the park.
Dozens of friends and staff at Sandwood Primary School in Glasgow where Miss Sturrock worked have since paid tribute to the “lovely, kind and considerate” teacher.
She was hailed by many as a “very talented” former member of the Wick drama club, the Wick Players, who had a “light that shines from within”.
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