Scotland’s police watchdog has been ordered to launch an investigation into the murder of a pregnant teacher in Glasgow after finding the body of her fiance in a reservoir days later.
The Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC) said it had been instructed to carry out the probe after the death of Marelle Sturrock, who was found at her home on Tuesday.
A PIRC spokesperson said: “Crown Office and the Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) has instructed the PIRC to carry out an investigation into the death of Marelle Sturrock on 25 April 2023 within 91 Jura Street, Glasgow.
“Once our inquiries are complete a report will be submitted to COPFS.”
Earlier on Friday, Police Scotland confirmed a body found in a reservoir had been identified as Sturrock’s fiance David Yates, 36. He was recovered after searches in Mugdock Reservoir, north of Glasgow. Officers had been looking for Yates in connection with the killing.
Police added his death was not being treated as suspicious. “An investigation remains ongoing, however, there is nothing to suggest anyone else was involved in her death,” Police Scotland said.
“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,” Det Supt Nicola Kilbane said on Thursday.
A murder investigation was launched after Sturrock, 35, who was 29 weeks pregnant, was found dead in her home on Jura Street in Glasgow on Tuesday. Her unborn child did not survive.
Yates was last sighted on Sunday after 8pm near Mugdock park, according to police, who said his subsequent movements were unknown after his vehicle, a white Seat Ateca, was found at the country park on Tuesday.
There was a large police presence at the park, which covers a significant area of often dense woodland. Police divers were involved in the search and large areas of the reservoir were cordoned off.
Sturrock moved from Wick, Caithness, to Glasgow when she was 17 to pursue a career in the performing arts. She later became a primary school teacher after completing her postgraduate diploma in education.
The headteacher of Sandwood primary school in Glasgow, where Sturrock worked, described her as lovely, kind, and a much-loved member of the school’s community.
“We are a school community in mourning and are devastated by the tragic news of her death and pass on our deepest condolences to her family and friends as we all come to terms with our loss,” Fiona Donnelly said.
The local amateur dramatics association Wick Players, which she attended as a teenager, said it was tragic her young life ended too soon.
“Some people have a light that shines from within, and Marelle’s talent shone through that aura and she followed her dream by doing drama and music studies at university,” the group said in a statement.
“Wick Players will always love and remember her as one of our family.”
