Christopher Rice, 35, appeared in private at Forfar Sheriff Court charged with murder following the death of Minnie Merriman.
Tributes have been paid to a ‘beautiful and brave’ nine-year-old girl as her father appeared in court charged with her murder.
Minnie Merriman, from West Yorkshire, was discovered seriously injured in Arbroath shortly after midnight on Monday morning and later died in Ninewells Hospital.
She was found on an industrial estate in the town, with her family, from West Yorkshire, camping nearby.
On Wednesday, her father, Christopher Rice, 35, from Wakefield, West Yorkshire, appeared at Forfar Sheriff Court charged with her murder.
He did not enter a plea and was committed for further examination and remanded in custody.
Rice will appear in court again within the next eight days.
Her family released a tribute to Minnie through Police Scotland and described their girl as “beloved, absolutely incredible and beautiful.”
In a statement, the 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.”
Scottish Ambulance Service said three others were taken to hospital for examination.
Detective Inspector Mike Ness, of Police Scotland’s major investigation team, has said the girl’s family members, who were camping in the area, were being supported by specialist officers.
In the wake of the incident, local politicians expressed shock and offered their thoughts to the girl’s family.
Lloyd Melville, the SNP MSP for Angus South, said: “I very much hope the family receive the support they need from the police, and my thoughts remain with them as they face this awful tragedy.”
Lois Speed, who represents the Arbroath East and Lunan ward at Angus Council, said the incident had left people “shocked,” describing it as “heartbreaking.”
She said: “I think everybody is just feeling at a loss for words, because it is just devastating. I have not spoken to anyone directly but [from] the social media shares and comments, everyone is just shocked and saddened.
“I think everyone’s thoughts are with those directly impacted, the wee girl, her family and everyone close. Everyone will be thinking of them and how difficult this must be.”
Ms Speed added: “Arbroath is a close community. In the past when there have been tragic events, everyone gets around and supports each other.”
Her fellow Arbroath councillor, Jack Cruickshanks, described the death of the young girl as a “profound tragedy.”
He said: “My thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones as they face an unimaginable loss.”
On Monday morning, a police forensics tent was set up at the Elliot Industrial Estate in Arbroath, with a cordon put in place next to the Halliburton manufacturing facility. Many floral tributes have been left at the scene.
Detective Inspector Mike Ness, of Police Scotland’s 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 inquiries continue.
“Anyone with any concerns, or information, should approach these officers or contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0008 of Monday August 3.”
It is understood West Yorkshire Police are supporting Police Scotland’s investigation.