THE death of six-year-old girl is being treated as murder, cops have confirmed tonight.
The bodies of dad Mark Gordon, 36, and Hope were found on Monday inside a family home in West Calder.
FacebookMark Gordon’s death is being treated as “unexplained” at this stage[/caption]
PATragic schoolgirl Hope Gordon death is now being treated as murder[/caption]
Michael Schofield, News Group Newspapers LtdTributes have been paid to the youngster as the community are left shocked by the death[/caption]
Michael Schofield, News Group Newspapers LtdCops are continuing to probe the incident[/caption]
Cops confirm following a post-mortem examination that Hope’s death is being treated as murder.
Mark Gordon’s death is to be treated as unexplained but detectives say there is nothing to suggest anyone else is involved.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “The death of a six-year-old girl in West Calder is being treated as murder.
“On Monday, 20 January, 2025, officers attended at a property in Harburn Drive, following a report of concern for a person, and the bodies of a 36-year-old man and a girl were found within.
“Following a post mortem examination, police can now confirm the girl’s death is being treated as murder.
“The man’s death continues to be treated as unexplained, pending a post mortem examination which will take place in due course.”
The tragic schoolgirl was yesterday described by her teachers as “bright, bubbly and affectionate”.
We told previously how staff at Toronto Primary in Livingston raised the alarm after the child, who split her time between both parents, failed to show up to class on Monday morning.
A worried relative went to chef Mark’s home in West Calder, West Lothian, but did not get an answer.
They contacted police, who made the horrific discovery after fire crews forced entry at around 4pm.
Fiona Linfoot, headteacher at Hope’s school, said: “Hope was a much-loved member of the Toronto Primary family and will be hugely missed by all her friends and staff. She was a bright, bubbly and affectionate girl who brought joy to everyone she met.
“We will really miss her infectious smile and kind heart.”
Detectives investigating the death revealed that officers had previous “contact” with the family.
Senior cops issued the update as they paid tribute to Hope’s friends and family, as well as others who may be affected by the tragedy.
Detective Superintendent Grant Hendry, of the Major Investigation Team, said: “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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