Man charged in connection with death of girl on camping trip in Scotland; girl named Minnie Merriman, 9, found injured at Arbroath industrial estate
Dawn ReidMinnie MerrimanMike NessLois SpeedPolice ScotlandWest Yorkshire police

Man charged in connection with death of girl on camping trip in Scotland; girl named Minnie Merriman, 9, found injured at Arbroath industrial estate

A 35-year-old man has been charged in connection with the death of nine-year-old Minnie Merriman, found injured at an industrial estate in Arbroath, Scotland. Police are treating her death as suspicious and confirmed the man was known to the girl, with no other suspects being sought.

The Guardian The Guardian+1 source5 August 2026 · 12:14 UTC
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A 35-year-old man has been charged in connection with the tragic death of nine-year-old Minnie Merriman, who was found seriously injured at the Elliot Industrial Estate in Arbroath shortly after midnight on Monday, 3 August 2026.124

Minnie was camping with her family from West Yorkshire when she was discovered. Despite being rushed to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, she later succumbed to her injuries.

Police Scotland confirmed that the man charged was known to Minnie and stated they are not seeking any other suspects.6

Detective Inspector Mike Ness expressed condolences, stating, “Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by these events, especially Minnie's family.” The family released a statement saying, “We are devastated with the loss of our beloved, absolutely incredible, beautiful and brave Minnie Moo.”5

Local residents have expressed their shock and grief, with floral tributes left at the scene. Councillor Lois Speed described the incident as “heartbreaking,” emphasizing the community's devastation.

The police presence in the area will continue as investigations proceed, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact Police Scotland.

The incident has raised concerns about safety, with local parents voicing their fears for their children's safety in public spaces.

The man is scheduled to appear at Forfar Sheriff Court on Wednesday.

Key Insight
“Her family, through Police Scotland, said they are 'devastated with the loss of our beloved, absolutely incredible, beautiful and brave Minnie Moo' and asked for privacy. Detective Inspector Mike Ness said a police presence will remain and urged anyone with information to call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident 0008 of Monday, 3 August.”
CuriousCats studied:
1
The GuardianThe Guardian
“Police say man, 35, was known to nine-year-old girl, who was found seriously injured on industrial estate in Arbroath”
The Guardian →
2
Sky News
“A nine-year-old girl who died after being found seriously injured at an industrial estate in Angus has been named as Minnie Merriman.”
Sky News →
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