Murder investigation launched as pregnant woman found dead and unborn baby dies

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Marelle Sturrock (Image: Police Scotland)
Marelle Sturrock (Image: Police Scotland)

Police in Scotland have launched a murder probe into the death of pregnant teacher Marelle Sturrock as they confirmed her baby also tragically died.

The 35-year-old was found dead at a property in Glasgow on Tuesday morning after she failed to show up for work, with detectives saying they were treating her death as "suspicious".

A search has since been launched for Ms Sturrock's fiancé, David Yates, who was last seen in the area on Sunday evening.

The search entered its third day on Thursday as a heavy police presence was seen in the city's Mugdock Country Park, with police dogs and a helicopter seen in the area.

Detective Superintendent Nicola Kilbane of Police Scotland said: “A murder investigation is ongoing in relation to the death of Marelle Sturrock, 35, at Jura Street in Glasgow.

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Murder investigation launched as pregnant woman found dead and unborn baby diesMarelle with partner David (Facebook)

"Officers attended her home address shortly after 8.40am on Tuesday, 25 April and she was pronounced dead at the scene.

"Marelle was 29 weeks pregnant and I can confirm that sadly her unborn baby did not survive.

"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."

A cordon remained in place at Mugdock Country Park on Thursday as police divers were seen entering a reservoir.

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

Murder investigation launched as pregnant woman found dead and unborn baby diesPolice divers are searching a reservoir at Mugdock Country Park (Garry McHarg/Daily Record)

Police have confirmed Mr Yates was wanted in connection.

DS Kilbane added: "Her partner David Yates is wanted in connection with Marelle’s death.

"At this time we have no information to suggest anyone else has been involved.

“His vehicle, a white Seat Ateca, was found at Mugdock Country Park on Tuesday and an extensive search has been ongoing in the area since.

“The last confirmed sighting of David was on Sunday evening shortly after 8pm. His subsequent movements are unknown after his vehicle was left at Mugdock Country Park but there is nothing to suggest he has left the area.

"We will keep an open mind on this as we continue to search the area.

“A visible police presence will remain at both Jura Street and Mugdock Country Park as our investigation continues."

DS Kilbane said there was nothing to suggest a wider risk to the public, and urged anyone with information to contact the force.

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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."

Susie Beever

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