Hope Gordon, a 6-year-old schoolgirl from West Calder, Scotland, and her father, Mark Gordon, 36, were tragically found dead in their family home.
Police Investigation Launched
Authorities initiated a welfare check on Monday, January 20, after Hope failed to attend school.
“Police Scotland responded to what we class as a ‘concern for’ call on Monday, January 20,” said Chief Superintendent Gregg Banks. “The call came from a family member concerned about the child’s absence from school.”
Hope’s parents shared custody, but according to police, she had been staying with her father for some time. Officials initially found no evidence of third-party involvement in the deaths.
Following a post-mortem examination, the case is being treated as a suspected murder-suicide, as reported by The Sun.
Statements from Authorities
Detective Superintendent Grant Hendry of the Major Investigation Team expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy.
“Our thoughts remain with Hope’s family and friends, along with everyone affected by this devastating incident,” Hendry said. “The families are understandably devastated, and we’re providing support through specialist officers during this incredibly difficult time.”
Hendry emphasized that investigators are continuing their work to provide answers for the family and reiterated there is no evidence suggesting anyone else was involved.
DCI Williamson urged the public to come forward with any relevant information, no matter how small. “If you know anything, please contact officers immediately,” he said.
Chief Superintendent Gregg Banks acknowledged the shock within the community but assured the public there is no broader risk, as the tragedy appears to be an isolated incident.
“We are working tirelessly to determine what happened in the property and to provide answers to the devastated family,” he added.
Remembering Hope
Hope was a student at Toronto Primary School in Livingston, where her loss has deeply affected the school community.
Headteacher Fiona Linfoot described Hope as “a bright, bubbly, and affectionate girl.”
“Hope was a much-loved member of the Toronto Primary family. She will be hugely missed by her friends and the school staff,” Linfoot shared. “We will always remember her infectious smile and kind heart.”
Community Support
The thoughts and prayers of the community are with the grieving family during this unimaginable loss. Police and community leaders are urging anyone with information to step forward and assist in the investigation.
