Man charged in connection with death of girl on camping trip in Scotland

Minnie Merriman was found injured on industrial estate in Arbroath on Monday and a man has appeared in court

A girl of nine who died on a family camping trip in Scotland has been named as Minnie Merriman.

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.”

Christopher Rice, 35, was charged with murder in relation to her death when he appeared at Forfar sheriff court on Wednesday. He did not enter a plea and was committed for further examination and remanded in custody.

Minnie, from West Yorkshire, was found seriously injured just after midnight on Monday at the Elliot industrial estate in Arbroath, Angus. She was taken to Ninewells hospital in Dundee where she later died.

According to local news reports three other family members were also taken to hospital by ambulance. It is understood these did not include Rice, who was taken separately to hospital by officers.

Police revealed that the suspect was white British after the far-right agitator Tommy Robinson shared footage from the scene of the incident, leading to speculation online about the man’s background.

Police said Rice was known to Minnie and they were not looking for anyone else in connection with her death.

DI Mike Ness of Police Scotland’s 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.”

Minnie is believed to have been camping in the area with her family. Local people said they had seen the family with a small tent in the area on Sunday afternoon.

Arbroath residents left floral tributes on a grass verge at the industrial estate, which is located close to the coast.

Dawn Reid, from the town, told the National : “We’re quite devastated by the news. Our kids are just not safe anywhere, it’s just heartbreaking. I just wish them all the best. She’s got a long road ahead of her, that poor mum.”

Lois Speed, a councillor for Arbroath East and Lunan, said on social mediathat the incident was “heartbreaking”. Speed told local media she wanted to “express the shock within the community this morning”.

“Really just my thoughts are with the little girl and her family, and those closely affected,” she said. “I don’t have much more that I can add or say, other just than express the shock and sympathies with everyone.”

On Tuesday afternoon a police cordon around the scene was lifted and a green car that had been inside it had been removed.

It is understood West Yorkshire police are supporting the Police Scotland investigation.