Man, 35, charged with murder of 'beautiful' schoolgirl, 9, in Arbroath is named

Man, 35, charged with murder of 'beautiful' schoolgirl, 9, in Arbroath is named Christopher Ryan Rice, 35, appeared in court accused of the murder of nine-year-old Minnie Merriman at an industrial estate in Arbroath A 35-year-old man has appeared in court charged with the murder of a nine-year-old girl in Scotland. Christopher Ryan Rice, 35, appeared at Forfar Sheriff Court on August 5 after being accused of killing schoolgirl Minnie Merriman, who was camping with her family near an industrial estate in Arbroath. Three other people were injured at Elliot Industrial Estate at 12.02am on Monday, August 3, and taken to hospital. Rice, of Wakefield in West Yorkshire, made no plea and was remanded in custody while the case was committed for further examination. He is expected to reappear in court within the next eight days. Minnie was found seriously injured and rushed to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee. Tragically, she succumbed to her injuries and died a short while later. The three others were later released from hospital. Police said Minnie and Rice were known to each other. Minnie’s family have paid tribute to her in a statement released through Police Scotland. They 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.” Minnie's family are being supported by specialist officers. 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.”