THE death of a American woman who used to teach in Redditch remains shrouded in mystery, despite an ongoing investigation by US authorities.

Rachel Entwistle, 27, and her nine-month-old daughter Lillian Rose were found shot dead in their Massachusetts home last weekend.

Funerals for the mum and baby were expected to take place today in Plymouth, Massachusetts.

A death notice published in the Quincy Patriot Ledger by Mrs Entwistle's mother, Priscilla Matterazzo, describes her as a "loving mother" and "beloved daughter" and Lillian Rose as a "beloved daughter" and "cherished granddaughter" but no mention is given of her English husband, Neil Entwistle.

Mr Entwistle, also 27, had returned to Britain two days before the bodies were found and is now believed to be in Worksop, Nottinghamshire, where his parents live.

He has not been charged with or suspected of any crime.

He is believed to have been running a number of get-rich-quick schemes on the internet and detectives are also investigating a possible vendetta against the family.

Mrs Entwistle taught English and Drama at St Augustine's High School from 2002 until last year, when she returned to America after the birth of her daughter.

Tributes have poured in from friends and family and the guest-book on the couple's website has now closed after being inundated with condolences.

A statement from school principal Yvonne Brennan said the community had been deeply saddened by the tragedy and special assemblies were held last week.

"Rachel was a much loved and respected teacher. She was a happy and vivacious young woman who took great delight in the joys of motherhood," she said.

"Her joy on the birth of Lillian Rose was infectious for all of us here."