Nine-year-old Minnie Merriman has been named as the girl who died after being found critically injured at an industrial estate in Arbroath, Scotland. A 35-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with her death.
Incident Details
Minnie was found within the grounds of Elliot Industrial Estate at 12.02am on Monday, August 3. It is believed she had been on a camping trip with her family, who are from Yorkshire. She was rushed to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, where she later died.
Four other individuals were also taken to hospital but were later discharged. The man is due to appear at Forfar Sheriff Court.
Family's Statement
In a statement released through Police Scotland, Minnie's 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."
Ongoing Investigation
Police have confirmed that enquiries into the girl's death remain ongoing. A local businessman reported seeing the family cooking on an outdoor camping stove in the hours before her death. Another witness recalled spotting a tent pitched beside a vehicle, describing it as a "weird set up".
The industrial estate is a bustling location, with workers regularly arriving and departing across various shifts. It is situated adjacent to the Hospitalfield housing estate and a retail park, with Arbroath seafront also nearby. Two holiday caravan parks operate in the vicinity, but both The Red Lion Holiday Park and Elliot Caravan Park confirmed the family had not been guests.
Community Reaction
Local resident Bill Smith told the Record: "It's unbelievable. It's all everyone is talking about today as it's incredibly sad. Nobody seems to know what has happened. But it's tragic that a girl so young has lost her life here."
Councillor Lois Speed, who represents the Arbroath East and Lunan ward, said: "The community is in shock at what has happened. My thoughts are with everyone that has been impacted."
Detective Inspector Mike Ness of the 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, 3 August 2026."
