New details surrounding Emma Pattison’s prior arrest
Warning: This article contains distressing content that some readers may find confronting.
It is now known that Emma Pattison, the headmistress at a private school in the UK who police believe was shot dead by her husband, made a distress call to a family member just hours before she was discovered.
Further to that, new details have emerged that reveal that Mrs Pattison was arrested by Surrey police following a domestic row with her husband, George, seven years ago.
Mr Pattison telephoned police one evening just prior to midnight, claiming that Mrs Pattison had slapped him around the face in their home.
Only a short time later – two minutes or so – Mr Pattison then called the station back to ask the police officers not to come, saying that the matter was inconsequential and that he had overreacted.
However, Surrey police decided to proceed with the home visit to investigate the complaint, and arrested Mrs Pattison on suspicion of common assault.
Mrs Pattison was then questioned in the presence of a solicitor, and was subsequently released without charge.
While a full investigation into their deaths has commenced, Surrey police are currently refusing to discuss Mrs Pattison’s arrest seven years ago in 2016, stating instead that autopsy results on the bodies of all three of the deceased are expected by the end of the week.
Police have yet to disclose the official cause of death, but are confident no one else was involved in the "isolated" incident.
Detectives confirmed a firearm registered to George, of which he had a license for, was found at the scene and they are treating the tragedy as a double murder and suicide.
Detectives suspect George killed his wife Emma, 45, and little Lettie before taking his own life.
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."
Don't go it alone. Please reach out for help.
Lifeline: 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au
Headspace: 1800 650 890 or headspace.org.au
Image credits: epsomcollege.org.uk