Detectives have confirmed that six-year-old Hope Gordon, who was discovered dead alongside her father, Mark Gordon, 36, in their West Calder, West Lothian home, was the victim of murder.
Hope and her father were found on Monday after concerns were raised when the young girl failed to attend school. Police Scotland revealed that her death is being treated as murder following a post-mortem examination, while her father’s death remains unexplained.
Authorities believe the case may be a murder-suicide, but there is no indication of involvement from any other parties or risk to the public.
Chief Superintendent Gregg Banks described the incident as “shocking and deeply upsetting” for the families and the community.
Detective Superintendent Grant Hendry added, “The families are understandably devastated, and we are providing support through specialist officers during this extremely difficult time.”
Discovery and Investigation
Emergency services were alerted on Monday due to concerns for Hope’s welfare. Around 4 p.m., police and firefighters forced entry into the property on Harburn Drive, where they discovered the bodies.
Since the discovery, police activity in the area has intensified, with a forensic tent erected in the garden, the property cordoned off, and detectives conducting door-to-door inquiries.
Residents of the neighborhood have expressed shock, as Hope was seen playing outside just days before her death.
Community Mourning
Hope attended Toronto Primary School, where headteacher Fiona Linfoot described her as “a bright, bubbly, and affectionate girl who brought joy to everyone she met.” Linfoot added, “We will truly miss her infectious smile and kind heart.”
Family Circumstances
Police confirmed that Hope’s parents were separated and that there was a shared custody arrangement. Hope had been staying with her father for some time before the tragic incident.
Mark Gordon, who is believed to have other children, had previously experienced the loss of a five-month-old son in January 2017. Just days before his death, he shared a Facebook post titled, “What a day to be alive.”
Authorities have acknowledged that the family had been known to Police Scotland and social services for several years.
Ongoing Investigation
Police continue to conduct extensive inquiries and have urged anyone with information, no matter how minor, to come forward. A heightened police presence will remain in the area as investigations continue.
Detective Superintendent Hendry stated, “Our team of officers is committed to finding answers for the families, and we encourage anyone with information to contact the police.”
