Marelle Sturrock: police confirm body found was murdered pregnant woman's fiancé David Yates

A body found by police investigating the murder of pregnant teacher Marelle Sturrock has been formally identified as that of her partner David Yates.

Officers had been searching for the fiancé in connection with her death. His death is not being treated as suspicious.

A murder investigation was launched after the body of Marelle Sturrock was discovered at 8.40am on Tuesday (25 April) in a property in Jura Street, Glasgow. Officers later descended on Mugdock Country Park, just outside the city in East Dunbartonshire, where they recovered a body which has now been confirmed as 36-year-old David Yates.

Police Scotland said she was 29-weeks pregnant and her unborn baby did not survive. The force said Yates 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.

Ms Sturrock worked at Sandwood Primary School in Glasgow and on Wednesday (26 April) her parents were told of the death.

The 35-year-old had exchanged excited messages with friends on her Facebook profile about her baby. After the tragic announcement, headteacher Fiona Donnelly said in a letter: “It is with deep sorrow that I must inform you about the sudden death of Ms Sturrock who is a beloved member of our teaching staff.

“I know that this will come as a shock to our school community, and we will do all that we can to support children, staff and families through what will be a difficult and challenging time. We have had support in school today from our educational psychologists who will be here over the next few days to offer help and advice.”

She added: “I hope that you will understand that there are no other details that I can share at this time but wanted to let our families know the tragic news from the school.”

Det Ch Insp Cheryl Kelly said: “A visible police presence will remain at both locations as our work continues.” Ms Sturrock was from 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 postgraduate diploma in education.

She was a member of an amateur dramatics group, Wick Players They posted a tribute message to her: “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. It is tragic that her young life has ended too soon.”

Det Ch Insp 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.”

She added there was “not believed to be any risk to the wider public” but anyone with information or concerns should contact police on 101.