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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Alahna Kindred

Police divers search reservoir for missing fiancé after pregnant teacher found dead

Police divers were seen searching a reservoir at a park as they continue to look for a pregnant teacher's fiancé, after she was found dead at home.

Marelle Sturrock, 35, was found dead after police were called to a property in Glasgow on Tuesday morning.

Police Scotland said it was treating her death as suspicious.

A large-scale search has continued for a second day for a missing man at Mugdock Country Park, which police said was linked to Marelle's death.

It's understood the missing man Police Scotland is searching for is David Yates, the victim's fiancé.

The Mugdock Country Park has a lake, Loch Mugdock, at its centre, and two major reservoirs, the Mugdock and Craigmaddie Reservoirs.

Colleagues raised the alarm when Marelle didn't show up for work (Facebook)

A cordon remains in place today as divers search the reservoirs.

It comes as the community was still coming to terms with Marelle's death.

Friend Alec Nicholson paid tribute to Marelle, saying she was an "exceptionally beautiful" and "kind" person.

He told the Mirror: "She was just an exceptionally beautiful human. I mean, of course, anyone would say that about someone whose loss they’re mourning, but she really was incredibly special. So beautiful, so talented, but so kind."

Police divers are searching a reservoir at Mugdock Country Park (Garry McHarg/Daily Record)

He added: "It’s very shocking and we’re all struggling to comprehend how it’s possible. Just a lovely, lovely girl."

Marelle was from Wick in the Scottish Highlands but moved to Glasgow when she was 17 to pursue a career in the performing arts.

She later became a primary school teacher after completing her post-graduate diploma in education and taught at Sandwood Primary School.

Marelle's death has shocked her community (Daily Record)

Headteacher Fiona Donnelly paid tribute to Marelle and her dedication to the school and its pupils.

She told the Daily Record: “Marelle has 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.

“We will all miss her so much. She was a lovely, kind, diligent and considerate person who loved and made time for everyone.

Marelle with partner David (Facebook)

“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 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.”

Pregnant Marelle lived with her fiancé David, with the pair getting engaged in 2015.

During lockdown, the couple launched an online group that encouraged people to join in with musical performances.

Marelle was pregnant at the time she was found dead (Facebook)

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.”

Officers have also been carrying out extensive search activity at Mugdock Country Park in relation to a man who has been reported missing in the area.

Marelle Sturrock was found dead in a property in Glasgow (Facebook)
Marelle's death is being treated as suspicious (Facebook)

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 Scotland on 101, quoting incident 0904 of 25 April or speak to any of our officers.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Officers have been carrying out extensive search activity at Mugdock Country Park in relation to a man who has been reported missing in the area.

"This is being treated as linked to the death of Marelle Sturrock searches remain ongoing in the area."

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