Mum of schoolgirl, 9, ‘killed’ in Arbroath says they’re ‘connected eternally’ in tribute at scene

Minnie Merriman’s mother has left a tribute to her daughter at the site where she died, saying they are ‘connected eternally’.

Minnie, nine, was allegedly killed on Monday morning during a camping holiday in Arbroath, Scotland, with her family.

The schoolgirl, from West Yorkshire, was taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee after suffering fatal injuries at the Elliot Industrial Estate.

A 35-year-old man, Christopher Rice, has been charged with murder and appeared before Forfar Sheriff Court on Wednesday, where he made no plea.

It is understood the man and the victim were known to each other.

Tributes and flowers have been left at the site where Minnie was fatally wounded.

Some of these were left by relatives, including the schoolgirl’s mother.

‘To my darling Minnie Moo,’ her mum wrote.

‘Wherever you are, we’re still connected eternally. I love you my girl.

‘Mammy will carry your strength always.’

Another note read: ‘To Min Min, I love you baby.’

A third said: ‘My hero, Minnie Moo.’

Items including a sketchbook, a plush strawberry and a Hello Kitty doll were also left there in Minnie’s memory.

In a statement previously released through police, Minnie’s 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.’

Three other people were taken to hospital following Monday’s incident.

Rice was taken to the same hospital and later into custody and charged.

Following yesterday’s court appearance, he was remanded in custody and is due to appear in court next week.

Detective Inspector Mike Ness of the Major Investigation Team said: ‘Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by these events, especially Minnie’s family.

‘A police presence will remain in the area while our enquiries continue.

‘Anyone with any concerns, or information, should approach these officers or contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0008 of Monday, 3 August 2026.’