A father charged with murder following the death of his nine-year-old daughter in Arbroath is facing trial after appearing in court for a second time.
Court Appearance
Christopher Rice, 35, of Wakefield, West Yorkshire, appeared at Forfar Sheriff Court for a second time after being charged with murder. He made a further appearance in private at the same court on Thursday. He did not enter a plea and was fully committed and remanded in custody. The date of his next court appearance is yet to be confirmed.
Incident Details
Minnie Merriman, from West Yorkshire, was found injured just after midnight on August 3 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.
There was a police presence in the area for a number of days following the incident while further investigations were carried out. Floral tributes were also left at the scene. It is understood West Yorkshire Police supported Police Scotland’s investigation.
Family Tribute and Support
Minnie’s family previously paid tribute to her in a statement released through Police Scotland. They 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.”
A close friend of the family has also set up a gofundme appeal to support them. Stevie Walker said they had endured "unimaginable heartbreak". He added: "Until Minnie can come home, the family face regular travel between Yorkshire and Scotland, as well as accommodation and everyday living costs."
Data Breach Probe
NHS Tayside is continuing to probe an alleged data breach into Minnie's medical records. The health board said it was "investigating the circumstances" of the alleged breach that happened in a clinical area where staff access patient information.
