Two schoolgirls found dead alongside their mother in Great Denham have been remembered as 'full of life' and a 'ray of sunshine' by their respective schools. Natalie Tshuma, 15, and Nala Tshuma, 5, were discovered at a house in Carnoustie Drive on Monday, July 6, 2026, alongside their mother Nothabo Zandile Tshuma.
Suspect Named and Sought
Bedfordshire Police have named Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, also known as Mark, as a murder suspect. The 45-year-old husband and father is believed to have left the UK via Heathrow Airport on Saturday, July 4, and is now thought to be in Zimbabwe. Detective Inspector Lee Martin appealed directly to Tshuma, urging him to turn himself in to local authorities.
'Three innocent people have lost their lives in the worst possible circumstances, leaving your relatives and friends devastated,' Martin said. 'We are throwing the full weight of the law behind this investigation. Criminal investigations know no borders.'
Tributes from Schools
Bedford Girls' School confirmed Natalie was a Year 10 student. Headmistress Gemma Gibson described her as 'a bright and accomplished student who was dearly loved by everyone.' She added: 'Natalie 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.'
Pilgrims Pre-Prep School paid tribute to Nala, with headteacher Jo Webster saying: 'Nala was a much-loved member of our school community and brought joy to those around her every day. She was a little ray of sunshine, known for her inquisitive and bubbly nature, her positivity, happiness and her wonderful sense of humour.'
Police Investigation
DI Martin vowed to pursue the suspect internationally, stating: 'We are actively working with national and international agencies to pursue every available line of enquiry to track you down.' The schools have requested privacy to grieve, with Bedford Girls' School planning to hold a community remembrance for Natalie at an appropriate time.
