Shot mother and daughter 'innocent'

Dec 30 2009

The family of a mother and her daughter killed during a domestic row said they were "innocent parties" in an awful tragedy.

Julie Harrison's father, Reginald Harrison, said his daughter was a "happy-go-lucky, bubbly girl" and he also paid tribute to his "beautiful granddaughter" Maisie, four.

He described his granddaughter as a "confident, happy, chatty, active, animated, bright young girl who brought joy to our lives".

Maisie died from gunshot wounds at her father Andy Copland's house in Aldershot, Hampshire.

It is believed Copland then turned the gun on himself. Ms Harrison, who was also shot, died later in a London hospital.

Mr Harrison, 74, from Camberley in Surrey, said in the statement released by Hampshire police that "Julie was a joy giver and Maisie was our sunshine".

"Julie and Maisie were innocent parties in this awful tragedy," he said.

"Julie was a happy go lucky, bubbly girl who was always laughing and joking and pulling my leg.

"Her very presence made us all feel good and we always looked forward to her visits. She was involved in charity work and loved animals, and recently played the role of Father Christmas for the children at play school.

"She was completely devoted to her daughter Maisie, our beautiful granddaughter. Maisie was a confident, happy, chatty, active, animated, bright young girl who brought joy to our lives. She loved playing with her dolls and loved animals and had just spent a fantastic Christmas with Julie and our family."