Body found in reservoir confirmed as partner of murdered teacher

A body found by police investigating the murder of pregnant teacher Marelle Sturrock has been formally identified as that of her partner, the man officers were seeking in connection with her death.

Police launched a murder investigation after the body of Ms Sturrock, 35, was found at her home in Jura Street, Glasgow, on Tuesday morning.

She was 29 weeks pregnant and her unborn baby did not survive.

Police Scotland said the body of a man recovered on Thursday after searches of Mugdock Reservoir, north of Glasgow, has been formally identified as 36-year-old David Yates.

His death is not being treated as suspicious.

Police said he was wanted in connection with the death of his partner, and that while an investigation is continuing there is nothing to suggest anyone else was involved in her death.

Officers carried out an intensive search of Mugdock Country Park, around nine miles from Ms Sturrock’s home, following the discovery of her body.

Police divers were involved in the search and large areas of the reservoir were cordoned off with police tape.

The headteacher at Sandwood Primary School in Glasgow, where Ms Sturrock worked, said the community is “devastated”.

Fiona Donnelly said: “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 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 (Theatre) in one of her many acting roles outside of school.

“We are a school community in mourning and are devasted 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.”

Parents at the school were told of the death in a letter on Wednesday and education psychologists are on hand to support pupils.

Ms Sturrock was from Wick, Caithness, but moved to Glasgow when she was 17 to pursue a career in the performing arts.

She became a primary school teacher after completing a postgraduate diploma in education.

Police Scotland said reports will be submitted to the procurator fiscal in due course.

Speaking on Thursday, Detective Superintendent Nicola Kilbane 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.”

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