RCMP SUSPECT MURDER/SUICIDE

MACPHERSONS MILLS - Instead of sharing the holidays with Andrea Dawn Perrin, her family and friends are left with only their memories of her.
Perrin, a 26-year-old elementary school teacher at Walter Duggan Consolidated School in Westville, and Paul Andrew MacDonald, 33, a man she had known for years, were found dead Sunday at her home on Grist Mill Road in MacPhersons Mills.
Sgt. Law Power, acting commander of the Pictou County District RCMP, said yesterday: "The cause of death was determined by the medical examiner (and) it appears we're looking at murder-suicide."
He added: "It appears the male, MacDonald, would have committed the murder and then committed suicide."
Police arrived at the house shortly after noon, after responding to a 911 call from a nearby house.
Power estimates Perrin and MacDonald had been dead no more than two hours before police were on the scene.
Power said a weapon was used, but he wouldn't say what it was.
Bill Rudolph, a spokesperson for the Perrin family, says the woman's parents, Doug and Debbie Perrin, family and friends are in shock over her death.
"When one witnesses the outpouring of love and caring from so many people of all ages, it is obvious that Andrea was indeed a special young person and educator who touched the lives of many people," Rudolph said in a statement.
"It is a personal tragedy beyond comprehension."
He said the family would like to thank those who've sent words of encouragement and support during this difficult time.
"The family wishes to acknowledge the kindness and professionalism of the countless people who have come forth since word of the tragedy was first heard," he said, adding the family will have no further comment and are requesting privacy as they go through the grieving process.
On Sunday neighbours of Andrea's expressed shock and disbelief over the tragedy that has struck this small Pictou County community.
In just a few words, Catherine Kowalski, who lives just around the corner from the scene, expressed how many in the community are undoubtedly feeling.
"I can't believe something like that would happen so close to home and so close to Christmas," she said.