Bedford Girls' School and Pilgrims Pre-Prep School have paid heartfelt tributes to two sisters found dead alongside their mother in Great Denham. Natalie Tshuma, 15, and Nala Tshuma, 5, were discovered at a house in Carnoustie Drive on Monday, July 6, 2026, along with their mother Nothabo Zandile Tshuma. Bedfordshire Police have named Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, also known as Mark, the husband and father, as a murder suspect.
School tributes to Natalie Tshuma
Bedford Girls' School confirmed that Natalie was a Year 10 pupil. Headmistress Mrs Gemma Gibson said: 'Natalie was a bright and accomplished Year 10 student who was dearly loved by everyone at Bedford Girls' School. 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 will be remembered with warmth and affection.' Mrs Gibson added that the tragic death of Natalie, along with her mother and younger sister, who were also known to many at the school, was a 'hugely devastating shock' to the school and the wider Harpur Trust group. She asked for privacy to allow the community to mourn.
Tribute to Nala Tshuma
Pilgrims Pre-Prep School paid tribute to Nala, describing her as a 'much-loved member of our school community'. Headteacher Jo Webster said: 'She was a little ray of sunshine, known for her inquisitive and bubbly nature, her positivity, happiness and her wonderful sense of humour. She was kind, caring, and affectionate, with a huge smile that brightened every room and hugs that made everyone feel special.' Many staff had known Nala since she was seven months old. The school also asked for privacy as they grieve.
Police investigation and appeal
In a press conference, Detective Inspector Lee Martin of Bedfordshire Police appealed to the suspect, Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, 45, to turn himself in. DI Martin stated that Tshuma left the UK on Saturday, July 4, via Heathrow Airport, using a British passport, and is believed to be in Zimbabwe. 'Three innocent people have lost their lives in the worst possible circumstances, leaving your relatives and friends devastated,' DI Martin said directly to Tshuma. 'We are throwing the full weight of the law behind this investigation. Criminal investigations know no borders. We are actively working with national and international agencies to pursue every available line of enquiry to track you down. Please do the right thing, come forward and hand yourself in to local authorities.' Officers have vowed to bring the perpetrator to justice.
