Father of Minnie Merriman, 9, Appears in Court Again on Murder Charge

Christopher Rice, 35, from Wakefield, West Yorkshire, has appeared in court for a second time in connection with the death of his nine-year-old daughter, Minnie Merriman.

Minnie, who was from West Yorkshire, was found injured shortly after midnight on August 3 at Elliot Industrial Estate in Arbroath, Angus, while her family were camping in the area.

She was taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, where she later died.

Rice first appeared before Forfar Sheriff Court last week after being charged with murder. He returned to the same court on Thursday for a further hearing held in private.

The 35-year-old did not enter a plea and was fully committed before being remanded in custody. His next court date has not yet been confirmed.

Following Minnie’s death, her family released an emotional statement through Police Scotland.

“We are devastated with the loss of our beloved, absolutely incredible, beautiful and brave Minnie Moo,” they said.

“Our family asks that our privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time.”

Police maintained a presence in the area for several days following the incident while investigators continued their enquiries.

Members of the public also left floral tributes at the scene in memory of Minnie.

West Yorkshire Police are understood to have assisted Police Scotland with the investigation.