'A beauty inside and out' – tributes pour in to Wick woman as murder hunt launched
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A Wick woman who was found dead in her Glasgow home this week has been described as having an "inner light" and a big talent.
Police announced on Thursday that they had launched a murder investigation into the death of Marelle Sturrock.
The 35-year-old was 29 weeks pregnant when she was killed, and police confirmed that her unborn baby had also died.
Officers were continuing to hunt for their prime suspect, Marelle's partner David Yates, at Mugdock Country Park on the outskirts of Glasgow. They do not believe anybody else was involved in the death.
Tributes have been pouring in for Marelle, who was a teacher at Sandwood Primary School in Glasgow. She left Wick aged 17 but left a lasting impression on the community, where she was involved in amateur dramatics.
Jenny Szyfelbain, chairperson of Wick Players, recalled that Marelle had been involved in the local drama group for about six years before going off to university.
Mrs Szyfelbain said: “She came in as a young teenager in our junior players and she was a very, very talented kid – but the Sturrocks are, because [her sister] Clare sings and directs as well.
“I can honestly say she had an inner light that came from within her. You see some folk on a stage and you know they've been kind of born to it, and her personality matched what she was doing.
"She was a happy individual, always smiling, and obviously a very beautiful-looking lassie.
“It's just dreadful.”
She added: “When we did Beauty and the Beast in 2003 I played the panto dame as we couldn't get a male to do it.
“It was my first time working with Marelle. She was a beauty inside and out.
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“She was disciplined and so willing to do what it took to bring her character to life.
“She also did the play A Dog's Life [in 2005], directed by her sister Clare, playing the French poodle complete with accent and doing a lot of tail-wagging movements. The kids won the one-act festival.
“Her ability to make bonds with the other players and her happy enthusiasm and talent will keep Marelle a special part of the Wick Players family.”
Officers have been searching for her missing partner David Yates since Tuesday. His car was discovered at the country park but he has not been seen since Sunday.
Police confirmed that Mr Yates is the man wanted in connection with Marelle's death, and they are not looking for anybody else at present.
Detective Superintendent Nicola Kilbane said: “A murder investigation is ongoing in relation to the death of Marelle Sturrock (35) at Jura Street in Glasgow.
“Officers attended her home address shortly after 8.40am on Tuesday, April 25, 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."
Det Supt 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.
“There is not believed to be any risk to the wider public. However, I would urge anyone with information or concerns to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident 0904 of April 25 or speak to any of our officers.
“Finally, I would like once again to express our condolences to Marelle’s family and everyone affected by this tragic incident.”
Hundreds of tributes were posted online to Marelle, who attended Wick High School.
Tracy Mackay said on Facebook: "Just horrendously heartbreaking for her family and friends. They have lost two precious loved ones and no words can take that pain away. Thoughts are with them all."
Vicky Mackay added: "Heartbreaking – rest in peace beautiful girl, was a privilege to have been blessed with your friendship, amazing memories, beautiful voice, you will be sorely missed xxxxx."
And Missy Faulks wrote: "Stunned and saddened to read of the loss of this beautiful young woman. I worked with Marelle 15 years ago and she was a vibrant and special woman. She arranged a birthday party for me and made me a CD of her singing and I’d known her less than a week by then (such a Marelle thing to do! Those who know her won’t be surprised by this!).
"She was a force of nature and I expect has left an imprint on many people's lives. Even after all these years, I still spoke of her occasionally. You certainly made a mark on mine, Marelle. Rest in peace with your baby, gorgeous girl. xx"
The head teacher at Sandwood Primary, Fiona Donnelly, said: "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."
