The boss of a domestic abuse charity has described the murders of a Kilmarnock mum and daughter “as a horrible reminder of the toll that men’s violence against women” has on others.
Dr Marsha Scott, chief executive of Scottish Women’s Aid, offered her “heartfelt sympathy” to the family and friends of Emma Robertson Coupland and Nicole Anderson.
NHS cleaner Emma, 39, was attacked by her ex-husband Steven Robertson in the car park of Crosshouse Hospital at about 7.45pm on Thursday.
Just 20 minutes later, Robertson, 40, killed Emma’s daughter Nicole, 24, near the takeaway where she worked in the centre of the town.
Robertson died after fleeing the scenes and crashing his car into a tree.
Dr Scott said: “These murders are horrible reminders of the toll that men’s violence against women takes in our families, our communities, our lives.
“As the details emerge, much will be made of how our systems did or didn’t protect Emma and Nicole, and we hope in that discussion that everyone will redouble their efforts to end this kind of violence and to hold accountable those responsible.
“For now, the most important message is to offer our support to the families and those affected.”
One of the three daughters Emma and Robertson had together, Demi-Lee, has organised a balloon tribute in memory of the pair at the town’s Bellfield Estate on Friday.
Police inquiries are ongoing.
Scotland’s Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline is at 0880 027 1234.
