Police treating deaths of dad and six-year-old daughter in West Calder as murder-suicide

Police are treating the death of a schoolgirl in West Calder as murder and say they are not looking for anyone else in connection.

The bodies of Mark Gordon, 36, and his daughter Hope, six, were discovered at a property on Harburn Drive around 4pm on Monday.

Following a post-mortem, the schoolgirl’s death is now being treated as murder.

The man’s death is being treated as unexplained pending a post-mortem.

Detectives from Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team have confirmed that there is nothing to suggest anyone else is involved or there is any risk to the public.

Officers visited the house after concerns were raised by a family member after Hope failed to attend school.

Father and six-year-old daughter found dead in West Calder home named Facebook

The fire service was called to assist police in gaining entry to the property where the bodies were found.

Detective superintendent Grant Hendry, of the Major Investigation Team, said: “Our thoughts remain with Hope’s family and friends, along with everyone affected by this tragedy.

“The families are understandably devastated and we are providing them with support through specialist officers at this extremely difficult time.

“Our team of officers continue to carry out enquiries to get answers for the families and at this time, we have no information to suggest anyone else is involved.

“I would ask that anyone with any information, no matter how small or insignificant you think it is, gets in touch with the police.”

Chief superintendent Gregg Banks, Divisional Commander, said: “This is a shocking and deeply upsetting incident for the families involved, and the impact is felt right across the local community.

“I am grateful for the support received as we methodically complete essential enquires within the house in West Calder to ensure the families and local residents get the answers they deserve, and would ask that the family’s privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time.

“There will continue to be a visible policing presence in the area and I would urge anyone with questions, concerns or information to approach a local officer – they are there to help.”

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