Tragic Incident in Scotland: Father and Young Daughter Found Dead in Their Home

Authorities in West Calder, Scotland, have confirmed the deaths of 6-year-old Hope Gordon and her father, 36-year-old Mark Gordon, in their family home.

Police were alerted after Hope failed to attend school on Monday, January 20. Chief Superintendent Gregg Banks stated, “Police Scotland responded to a ‘concern for’ call from a family member regarding a child’s absence from school.”

Hope’s parents shared custody, but she had been staying with her father for some time. Following a post-mortem examination, authorities are treating the case as a suspected murder-suicide.

Detective Superintendent Grant Hendry expressed condolences, saying, “Our thoughts remain with Hope’s family and friends during this devastating time. Specialist officers are supporting the grieving families.” He confirmed that investigators have found no evidence of third-party involvement but continue to seek answers.

DCI Williamson urged anyone with relevant information, no matter how minor, to come forward. Chief Superintendent Banks assured the community that this was an isolated incident and posed no wider risk to the public.

Hope was a student at Toronto Primary School in Livingston. Headteacher Fiona Linfoot described her as “a bright, bubbly, and affectionate girl who was deeply loved by friends and staff. We will miss her infectious smile and kind heart.”

Our thoughts are with the grieving family.