“A little ray of sunshine”: Tributes paid to mother and daughters found dead in Bedford
Two children found dead in Great Denham have been remembered by their schools
Last updated 9th Jul 2026
Tributes have been paid to a mother and her two daughters who were found dead in Bedford earlier this week.
A murder investigation was launched on Tuesday (7 July), after the bodies of a woman and two children were discovered at a property in Great Denham.
The victims, identified by their family as Zandile Tshuma, known as Zandile, and her daughters Natalie, 15, and Nala, 5, are being remembered by their schools.
Natalie, a Year 10 student at Bedford Girls' School, was described by Headmistress Gemma Gibson as a "bright and accomplished" individual, loved for her fun-loving spirit.
"Natalie had a positive impact on everyone she came into contact with," Mrs Gibson said.
“She was a talented dancer, musician, and keen sportswoman who will be remembered with warmth and affection."
Nala, a pupil at Pilgrims Pre Prep School, was fondly remembered as a "little ray of sunshine," according to Headteacher Jo Webster.
Nala "brought warmth and happiness wherever she went," Ms Webster said, highlighting her bubbly nature and sense of humour.
“We will remember her with enormous love and affection," she added.
The Khumalo family, deeply saddened by the passing, expressed their gratitude for the support received from the community during this difficult time.
Manhunt underway
On Wednesday (8 July) police released CCTV of a man, wanted in connection with deaths of Zandile, Natalie, and Nala.
Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, who also goes by the name of Mark, aged 45 and from Bedford, is believed to have left the country from Heathrow Airport on a British passport on Saturday (4 July). He is a British citizen of Zimbabwean heritage.
Senior investigating officer, Detective Inspector Lee Martin, said: “We have been carrying out numerous lines of enquiry as part of this fast-paced, complex investigation. We know that Mark Tshuma left the country on Saturday and is now believed to be in Zimbabwe.
“We are urgently working to find and apprehend him, and would appeal to him directly to hand himself in.
“Mark, unthinkable harm has been caused to those around you and this has left your relatives and friends utterly devastated. Criminal investigation knows 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.
“Our thoughts are still very much with Zandile, Natalie and Nala, as well as all of those who loved and knew them, at this extremely difficult time.”