The nine-year-old girl who died after being found seriously injured at an industrial estate in Angus has been named by Police Scotland as Minnie Merriman, as the 35-year-old man charged in connection with her death prepares to appear at Forfar Sheriff Court.
Police Scotland have named the nine-year-old girl who died after being found seriously injured at an industrial estate in Arbroath as Minnie Merriman. A 35-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with her death and is due to appear at Forfar Sheriff Court on Wednesday. Minnie was found seriously injured at Elliot Industrial Estate shortly after midnight on Monday, 3 August 2026, and was taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, where she later died. Police said Minnie and the man charged were known to each other.
What happened
Minnie’s family, from West Yorkshire, had been camping in the area at the time. Police Scotland has said officers are not looking for anyone else in connection with her death, and that the rest of her family are being supported by specialist officers as the investigation continues.
Family pay tribute
In a statement released through Police Scotland, Minnie’s family described her as “our beloved, absolutely incredible, beautiful and brave Minnie Moo,” saying they were devastated by her loss. The family asked that their privacy be respected during what they described as an extremely difficult time.
Police response
Detective Inspector Mike Ness of the Major Investigation Team said “our thoughts remain with everyone affected by these events, especially Minnie’s family.” He confirmed that a police presence would remain in the area while enquiries continue, and appealed to anyone with concerns or information to approach officers in the area directly or contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0008 of Monday, 3 August 2026.
