A young girl, Minnie Merriman, aged nine, passed away after being discovered injured in Arbroath. The incident occurred at the Elliot Industrial Estate shortly after midnight on Monday. Despite being swiftly taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, she succumbed to her injuries upon arrival.
Following the incident, three individuals were transported to the hospital but were later discharged. A 35-year-old man has been apprehended and charged in connection with the girl’s death. Authorities have confirmed that Minnie and the arrested individual were acquainted. The suspect is scheduled to make a court appearance today, as per reports from the Daily Record.
According to the police, the girl’s family, originally from West Yorkshire, was camping in the vicinity at the time of the tragic event. The family released a statement expressing their devastation over the loss of Minnie, describing her as remarkable and courageous, and requested privacy during this challenging period.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding Minnie’s demise are ongoing. Witnesses mentioned encountering the family before the incident, with one observer recalling seeing them cooking on a camping stove. Another witness noted a tent set up near a car, which struck them as unusual.
The industrial estate where the incident unfolded is situated amidst a residential area, a retail park, and the Arbroath seafront, making it a bustling locality. Although two caravan sites are nearby, neither has confirmed hosting the girl or her family prior to the tragic event.
Local resident Bill Smith conveyed shock and sadness over the incident, emphasizing the tragic loss of a young life. The area around the crime scene has been cordoned off, with police conducting thorough investigations. Various items, including a blue Peugeot car and a forensic tent, have been secured as part of the inquiry.
Detective Inspector Mike Ness of the Major Investigation Team extended sympathies to all those affected, particularly Minnie’s family, and assured that a police presence will be maintained during the ongoing investigations. Individuals with information or concerns are encouraged to contact the authorities or call Police Scotland, quoting incident number 0008 of Monday, 3 August 2026.