The family of a mother and her two children found dead at a property in Great Denham have thanked the local community for their support.
Although formal identification is yet to take place, police believe the victims are Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, 42, and her daughters Natalie, 15, and Nala, five.
Read: Photo of Great Denham triple murder victims released as international manhunt continues
In a statement, the Khumalo family said they are “deeply saddened” to confirm the passing of their relatives.
The family added: “During this time of unimaginable loss, we wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has reached out with prayers, messages of comfort, and support.”
They noted that the circumstances surrounding the deaths remain the subject of an official investigation.
The family has also requested that the public and media respect their privacy and “refrain from sharing or circulating unverified information or speculation” while they await guidance on funeral arrangements.
Tributes have also poured in from the two local schools that Natalie and Nala attended.
“Much-loved”
Gemma Gibson, headmistress of Bedford Girls’ School, paid tribute to Natalie, describing her as a “bright and accomplished” Year 10 student who was dearly loved by everyone.
Gibson said: “She was a talented dancer, musician and keen sportswoman. She was fun-loving, full of life and had a positive impact on everyone she came into contact with.”
She added that the tragic death is a “hugely devastating shock” to the school and the wider Harpur Trust group.
Jo Webster, headteacher of Pilgrims Pre-Prep School, paid tribute to five-year-old Nala, describing her as a “much-loved member of our school community.”
Webster said: “Known for her inquisitive and bubbly nature, positivity and wonderful sense of humour, she was a little ray of sunshine.”
Staff at the school had known Nala since she was seven months old and watched her grow.
Webster added: “Nala brought warmth and happiness wherever she went. She had an extraordinary impact on our community and will be remembered with enormous love and affection.”
Appeal for information
Detectives are now hunting for suspect Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, 45, who also goes by the name of Mark.
The Bedford man is believed to have left the country from Heathrow Airport on Saturday (4 July), using a British passport.
Police are appealing to anyone with information about Tshuma or who witnessed anything unusual in the days leading up to last week (Saturday) to come forward.
Officers stressed that any details, no matter how small, could be beneficial to the ongoing investigation.
Information can be reported online via the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) or by calling 101.
