Tributes paid to woman found dead in Jura Street, Glasgow as Mugdock Country Park search under way

Tributes have been paid to a primary school teacher who was found dead at a property in Glasgow on Tuesday morning.

Marelle Sturrock, who is originally from Wick, was discovered in a home on Jura Street in the Craigton area of the city shortly after 8.40am on Tuesday morning after police responded to a report of a concern for a person.

Police are treating her death as unexplained and enquiries remain ongoing including searches of Mugdock Country Park for a missing person.

Those who knew the expectant mother have paid tribute to the “talented, kind and caring mentor”.

One friend said: “Can’t believe what I’ve just heard. RIP Marelle, such a beautiful woman inside and out.

“Marelle was one of my mentors when in placement and helped me massively.

“Such a kind, caring and beautiful soul with a voice of an angel.”

Another added: “Can’t believe it. Such a beautiful woman inside and out. Condolences to everyone who knew her.”

One who had previously been in a show with the actress and singer wrote: “Marelle, you were the most talented, caring and kindest person.

“I still have the keepsake you gave everyone in the cast from our show, a testament to your nature. The students who come up to Rosshall from you always sing your praises. You will be so sorely missed.”

A theatre director in Glasgow, who had known Ms Sturrock since she was a teenager said: “Something feels so broken. When I say you were the nicest, warmest, sweetest, gentlest person — when we met as teenagers, and then when I was lucky enough for you to come back into my life in our 20s.

“You once saw me awkwardly sitting by myself before a pre-audition evening, nervous and alone, and you came over to talk to me and make sure I felt better, and for the years after that, that was always you.

“You always just wanted people to be okay, and to make them smile, but I don’t think you ever knew how positively you affected us — how many people would find a day like today devastating.

“My thoughts and love to every one of those people. From her family and closest friends, all the way to those of us who hadn’t seen her in person for a while, the world really feels worse today knowing she isn’t in it anymore.”

A friend said: “Shocked and devastated by the news about Marelle. Such a kind and talented lady – humble and unaware of just how talented she was. RIP lovely lady.”

In a letter sent to families from Sandwood Primary School, headteacher Fiona Donnelly said: “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.

“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.”

Police Scotland is treating the hunt for a missing person at Mugdock Country Park in East Dunbartonshire as linked to the investigation into Ms Sturrock’s death.

At around 11am on Tuesday, a heavy police presence was seen in the area and residents reported seeing helicopters circling the country park.

There is not believed to be any risk to the wider public.

Detective chief inspector Cheryl Kelly said: “We were made aware of concern for a woman at a property on Jura Street in Glasgow shortly after 8.40am on Tuesday, April 25.

“Officers attended and the body of a 35-year-old woman was found within.

“Her death is being treated as unexplained and enquiries remain ongoing.

“Officers have been carrying out extensive searches of Mugdock Country Park in relation to a missing person in the area.

“This is being treated as linked to the death at Jura Street and enquiries remain ongoing.

“Our thoughts are very much with everyone affected by this tragic incident.

“There is not believed to be any risk to the wider public but anyone with information or concerns can contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident 0904 of April 25.

“A police presence will remain at both locations as enquiries continue and anyone with information is also urged to speak to any of our officers.”