Police say Epsom College deaths are being treated as homicide
Headteacher Emma Pattison grew up in Lincolnshire
Last updated 7th Feb 2023
Surrey Police have confirmed that they are treating the incident at Epsom College on Sunday, 5th February as a homicide investigation.
Officers were called to the property on the grounds of Epsom College at around 01:10am on Sunday by the South East Coast Ambulance Service, where they found three bodies that they are confident are Epsom College Head teacher Emma Pattison (45), her daughter Lettie (7), and her husband George (39).
Emma Pattison grew up in Lincolnshire, and attended a grammar school in the area.
Police recovered a firearm from the scene, which was licensed and registered to 39-year-old George Pattison.
The deaths have been reported to the coroner for formal identification and causes of death will not be confirmed until post-mortems have been completed later this week.
Surrey Police had been in contact with George on Thursday (2 February) after notifying them of a previous change of address.
A referral has been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct following the short period of time between George getting in contact with police and the incident taking place in the early hours of Sunday morning.
In a statement, Surrey Police also said:
"We are aware of speculation regarding a firing range on the site. We can confirm this range does not form part of our scene or our inquiries. Any reporting to suggest otherwise is inaccurate."
The family's next of kin are being supported and their privacy is still to be respected.
Surrey Police are still carrying out their investigation to work out the circumstances of the incident, but are still confident at this stage that that there is no third-party involvement and that there is no risk or wider threat to the community.
Detective Chief Inspector Kimball Edey, Senior Investigating Officer on the case, said: “This is an incredibly traumatic incident and we are working around the clock to investigate and understand the exact circumstances which led to this point.
“We understand the public concern and upset, and we will clarify what we can, when we can, while respecting the right to a level of privacy for the families of those who have lost their lives.
“We are cooperating fully with the IOPC in relation to the referral we have made, and we await the outcome of its assessment of what further action may be required. Until this has been completed, we will be unable to provide further details on a number of matters.”
Inspector Jon Vale, Epsom and Ewell’s Borough Commander, said: “I know this incident has caused upset and sent shockwaves through the local community. Although we are confident that this incident was contained to one address, and there is no risk to the wider public I fully understand the concern this can and has caused members of our communities. Therefore, the public can expect to see a heightened police presence in the local area in the coming days. If you are concerned about anything at all I’d urge you to approach an officer and discuss your concerns with them. They will be ready and happy to help you however they can.
On Social media Kesteven and Sleaford High School said Emma was remembered as a friendly smiley student by classmates.