The father of a nine-year-old girl who died after being found seriously injured at an industrial estate in Arbroath is to stand trial accused of her murder.
Prosecutors allege Christopher Rice, from Wakefield, West Yorkshire, killed Minnie Merriman, who died in Dundee’s Ninewells Hospital on 3 August.
The 35-year-old, who was remanded in custody, made no plea during a second appearance in private via videolink at Forfar Sheriff Court. He was fully committed for trial.
Minnie’s family previously paid tribute to their “beloved, absolutely incredible, beautiful and brave Minnie Moo”.
Emergency services were called to the Elliot Industrial Estate in Arbroath shortly after midnight on 3 August following reports that a child had been found injured.
Minnie was taken to Ninewells Hospital alongside four other people, but later died as a result of her injuries.
Police Scotland said they were not looking for anyone else in connection with Minnie’s death and the other members of the family – who were camping in the area – are being supported by specialist officers.
