A nine-year-old girl who died after being found critically injured in Arbroath, Scotland, has been named as Minnie Merriman. The young schoolgirl was discovered 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.
Emergency Response and Family Tribute
Minnie was rushed to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, where she sadly died shortly afterwards. Four other individuals were also taken to hospital before later being discharged. A 35-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with her death. He is due to appear at Forfar Sheriff Court today, reports the Daily Record.
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."
Witness Accounts and Scene Description
Police have confirmed that enquiries into the girl's death remain ongoing. A local businessman revealed he had driven past the family in the hours preceding her death. He reported seeing them cooking on an outdoor camping stove. A separate 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. The location is situated adjacent to the Hospitalfield housing estate and a retail park, with Arbroath seafront also within close proximity. Two holiday caravan parks operate in the vicinity. Both The Red Lion Holiday Park and Elliot Caravan Park confirmed to the Record that the family had not been guests at their establishments. Flowers have subsequently been placed at the estate.
A substantial police cordon enclosing a grassed section, footpath and neighbouring roadway was established at the location earlier this week. A vehicle was sealed off with tape by police while a blue forensic tent was erected. The blue electric Peugeot featured a sunshade across the interior of the front windscreen, along with a purple blanket draped from the rear passenger window to block visibility. Scattered refuse and carrier bags were also strewn across the grass surrounding the forensic tent. Reports suggest the vehicle was taken away from the location on Tuesday.
Community Reaction and Police Appeal
Local people have characterised the incident as "tragic", with numerous residents stating the tight-knit neighbourhood has been left reeling. 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. There's a path from the houses that goes through the industrial estate down to the shop. It's a busy area through the day."
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."
