The principal of a prestigious private school in the UK has been found dead on school grounds alongside her husband and young daughter.
As reported by BBC News, the dead bodies of Emma Pattison, the 45-year-old head of Epsom College, her 39-year-old husband, George, and seven-year-old daughter Lettie were discovered at the Surrey school on Sunday morning.
Emma had only started working at the school since the academic year began in September. Prior to this position, she was the principal of Croydon High school in South London for six years. Epsom College had been honored with the "Independent School of the Year" award in October 2022.
Authorities are carrying out an investigation into the fatalities, however, police in Surrey believe the incident to be an isolated one, stating that there was most likely no involvement by third parties.
Law enforcement were called to the school, which sets parents back the equivalent of $50,000, at 1AM on Sunday.
Per BBC News, Dr Alastair Wells, chair of the board of governors at Epsom College, said: "On behalf of everyone at Epsom College, I want to convey our utter shock and disbelief at this tragic news.
"Our immediate thoughts and condolences are with Emma’s family, friends and loved ones, and to the many pupils and colleagues whose lives she enriched throughout her distinguished career.
"Emma was a wonderful teacher, but most of all she was a delightful person. In time we will commemorate Emma and her family, in the appropriate way, and in line with the wishes of her family.
"But for now, we ask that we are all given the time, space and respect we need to come to terms with this tragic loss."
Credit: Julia Gavin / Alamy
Dr Wells also sent an email to parents stating that both staff and students would have access to counselling in the wake of the tragedy.
More than 850 students, both male and female, attend the school, which was founded in 1853. Former students include British politician Sir Michael Fallon, TV personality Jeremy Vine and comic Tim Vine.
Emma's husband, George, worked as a chartered accountant and was director of a management consultancy business known as Tanglewood 2016, as stated on Companies House.
Det Ch Ins Kimball Edey of Surrey police has said: "I want to give my assurance that we will conduct a thorough investigation into what took place last night and hope to be able to bring some peace in these traumatic circumstances."
Insp Jon Vale, Epsom and Ewell’s borough commander, said: "We’re aware that this tragic incident will have caused concern and upset in the local community.
"While this is believed to be an isolated incident, in the coming days, our local officers will remain in the area to offer reassurance to students, parents, teachers, and the local community. I would like to thank the school and the community for their understanding and patience while the investigation continues."
All three fatalities have been reported to the coroner.
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