There are some heartbreaking developments emerging from the deaths of a UK school principal, her husband, and their young daughter.
Emma Pattison, 45, her husband George, 39, and their seven-year-old daughter Lettie were discovered at the school, which is in Surrey, England, on Sunday morning.
Emma was the principal of Epsom College, where she and her family were found dead. She began working at the school in September when the academic year began. Epsom College was awarded the title of "Independent School of the Year" as recently as October 2022.
Emma was previously the principal of Croydon High School in South London, where she worked for six years.
Now it is being reported that gunshots were heard before the principal and her family were discovered dead.
Outlets such as The Telegraph are reporting that this prompted a member of staff to contact the emergency services who found the dead bodies.
Newer reports from BBC News say new evidence indicates the tragedy was a murder-suicide.
Police believe the principal was fatally shot by her husband before he ended both his and his daughter's lives using the same gun.
According to authorities amid an ongoing investigation, George killed Emma and their daughter at the family home on school grounds.
A distressed Emma had made a phone call to a relative late on Saturday evening, the BBC reports.
By the time the family member arrived, all three were dead.
Surrey Police, who are investigating, will be sharing further details later on in the day.
Emma made history as the first female principal of Epsom College and had been commended for her hard work and determination.
Speaking on behalf of the school, Dr Alastair Wells - chair of the board of governors at Epsom College - shared his "utter shock and disbelief".
He 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."
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."
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