Police have issued a crucial update into the investigation of the deaths of Mark Gordon, 36, and his daughter, Hope, 6.
The father and his child were found unresponsive in their home in West Calder, West Lothian, on January 20, after the six-year-old’s absence from school raised concerns.
Following this, a murder investigation was launched into Hope’s death. Police have now stated that Mark’s death is “not being treated as suspicious” following a post-portem.
Mark reportedly shared custody of his six-year-old daughter with her mother, Margaret Cairns.
The family of the child released a statement following their death, stating that the passing of Hope would “never be understood or justified”. Hope’s aunt, Tess, shared a heartbreaking message, describing her niece as a “remarkable, beautiful little girl” and that the world now “feels empty” without her.
A GoFundMe page has been set up for the funeral costs, for which £8,000 has already been raised. The message on the website reads: “The tragedy that fell upon the hearts and souls of Hope’s family-especially her mum-will never be understood or justified.
“The torment, torture, and heartache we feel will never be able to be described-not today, not tomorrow, and not in the future. Not only do we feel empty, but the world feels empty too.”
It continues: “Hope was a remarkable, beautiful little girl with a bright future ahead of her. She was talented with her art skills and was one of the most intelligent little girls I had ever known. She excelled in English and maths and knew more than me at only six years old.
“She was just learning how to speak French and was so proud of herself-as were her mum and I. She had a heart full of love and never wasted a second showing it. She made sure to let you know, at every possible moment, what you meant to her.”
Detective Superintendent Grant Hendry, leading the Major Investigation Team at Police Scotland, stated: “Our thoughts remain with Hope’s family and friends, along with everyone affected by this tragedy.
“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.”
