Tributes pour in after mother and daughter killed in tragedy
The Prime Minister and First Minister led tributes to the nurse and her daughter after their tragec deaths.
NHS worker Emma Robertson Coupland, 39, and her daughter, Nicole Anderson, 24, died after the stabbings in Kilmarnock on Thursday night.
Prime Minister Boris Johnshon and First Minister Nicola Sturgeon have been leading the tributes to the ‘caring’ mother-of-four as police investigate what is thought may have been a double murder-suicide.
Ms Robertson Coupland’s partner Steven Robertson died later on Thursday evening when the car he was driving crashed in the town.
The deaths have prompted an outpouring of sympathy and support at a time when Ms Robertson Coupland’s colleagues at Crosshouse Hospital have been providing care for patients amidst the pressures caused by the pandemic.
The First Minister said: “Dreadful news.
"My thoughts are with the bereaved.
"Thinking too of everyone at Crosshouse Hospital, already dealing with the tough circumstances of Covid.
"I’m also grateful to our emergency services. Please continue to follow Police Scotland advice.”
Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s deputy spokesman commented: “The Prime Minister’s thoughts are with all those involved and he thanks the police and health care staff for their response.”
Rev Jim Mcnaughtan, of St Andrew's and St Marnock's Parish Church, said the reaction in the town has been one of disbelief.
He said: "The staff at Crosshouse Hospital have been working hard this wee while dealing with the Covid outbreak.
"For something like this to happen in the grounds of the hospital is tragic and shocking and there is great concern for all involved."
Police confirmed that a 40-year-old man, identified locally as Mr Robertson, died in a car crash on the C50, a minor road between the B7036 and the A76, following the two fatal stabbings.
East Ayrshire Council leader Douglas Reid said he was "shocked and saddened" by the tragic events.
He added: "In East Ayrshire we are proud of our community spirit and community resilience, but I know the events of last night will have had a devastating impact on several families in our communities and our heartfelt thoughts go out to them this morning."