The nine-year-old girl who died following an incident in Arbroath has been named as Minnie Merriman, with her family paying tribute to their "beloved, absolutely incredible, beautiful and brave Minnie Moo."
Incident and arrest
At around 12.02am on Monday, 3 August, 2026, Minnie was found seriously injured in Elliot Industrial Estate. She was taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, where she later died.
A 35-year-old man has been arrested and charged with her death, and is due to appear at Forfar Sheriff Court on Wednesday, 5 August, 2026. Police Scotland said Minnie and the man were known to each other.
Family tribute and police response
In a statement released through Police Scotland, 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."
Detective Inspector Mike Ness of the Major Investigation Team said: "Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by these events, especially Minnie's family. A police presence will remain in the area while our enquiries 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."
Officers are not looking for anyone else in connection with her death. The other members of the family, from West Yorkshire, who were camping in the area, are being supported by specialist officers.
