A nine-year-old girl who died after being found seriously injured at an industrial estate in Scotland has been named and pictured for the first time. Minnie Merriman, who was found dead at an industrial estate while her family were camping in Arbroath, has been described as “beloved, absolutely incredible and beautiful”.
She was found seriously injured just after midnight on Monday at the Elliot industrial estate in the Angus town and taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, where she later died. Her family said in a statement released via Police Scotland: “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.”
Police are treating the death as suspicious, and the white British man is due to appear at Dundee Sheriff Court on Wednesday.
Officers say they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the girl’s death, adding that the suspect was known to the victim.
Detective Inspector Mike Ness of Police Scotland’s major investigation team said a police presence will remain in the area while inquiries continue.
He 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 West Yorkshire Police are supporting Police Scotland’s probe.
At the industrial estate on Monday, a blue forensic tent was set up on a grassy verge. The area was taped off, with two police vehicles still at the scene and officers guarding the area. Flowers were placed on the grass near the police cordon.
Lois Speed, councillor for Arbroath East and Lunan, posted on social media, saying the news was “heartbreaking”. She later told the Press Association 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 just than express the shock and sympathies with everyone.”