A nine-year-old girl who died after she was found seriously injured on an industrial estate in Arbroath has been identified.
Minnie Merriman, from West Yorkshire, was found just after midnight on Monday at the Elliot industrial estate in the Angus town while her family were camping in the area.
She was taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, where she later died.
In a statement released via Police Scotland on Wednesday, her family said: “We are devastated with the loss of our beloved, absolutely incredible, beautiful and brave Minnie Moo.
“Our family asks that our privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time.”
Christopher Rice, 35, of Wakefield, West Yorkshire, was charged with murder when he appeared at Forfar Sheriff Court on Wednesday.
open image in galleryHe did not enter a plea and was committed for further examination and remanded in custody.
Rice will appear in court again within the next eight days.
Police have said Minnie and the 35-year-old were known to each other.
Minnie is believed to have been camping in the area with her family, who police say are being supported by specialist officers.
Detective Inspector Mike Ness of Police Scotland’s major investigation team said: “Our thoughts remain with those affected by these events.
“A police presence will remain in the area while our inquiries continue.
“Anyone with any concerns, or information, should approach these officers or contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0008 of Monday, August 3 2026.”
It is understood that West Yorkshire Police are supporting Police Scotland’s probe.
open image in galleryAt the industrial estate on Monday, a blue forensic tent was set up on a grassy verge outside Halliburton Arbroath manufacturing facility.
The area was taped off, with two police vehicles still at the scene and officers guarding the area.
A bouquet of flowers was placed on the grass near the police cordon.
Lois Speed, who is a councillor for Arbroath East and Lunan, posted on social media, saying the news was “heartbreaking”.
She later told reporters that she wished to “express the shock within the community this morning”.
Ms Speed said: “Really just my thoughts are with the little girl and her family, and those closely affected.
“I don’t have much more that I can add or say, other than just express the shock and sympathies with everyone.”
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