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A 35-year-old man accused of killing his nine-year-old daughter in Angus has appeared in court for a second time.
Christopher Rice, from Wakefield in West Yorkshire, attended a private hearing at Forfar Sheriff Court on Thursday in connection with the death of Minnie Merriman.
Police and ambulance personnel were dispatched to the Elliot Industrial Estate in Arbroath shortly after midnight on Monday, August 3, following reports of a seriously injured child.
Minnie was taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee for treatment but subsequently died from her injuries.
Rice was detained by police and later formally accused of murder.
He previously appeared before the same court last week but did not enter a plea.
During Thursday’s hearing, he again declined to plead and was ordered to remain in custody.
The date for his next appearance has not yet been announced.
Police Scotland said Minnie’s relatives, who travelled from West Yorkshire and had been staying at a campsite in the region, are receiving assistance from specially trained officers.
West Yorkshire Police are also understood to be involved in inquiries surrounding the girl’s death.
In a statement issued through Police Scotland, Minnie’s relatives described her as their “absolutely incredible, beautiful and brave Minnie Moo” and said they were heartbroken by her passing.
The family also appealed for privacy as they deal with their loss.
Tributes have continued to emerge across Arbroath.
Before their weekend fixture against Inverness Caledonian Thistle, Arbroath FC observed a minute’s silence in memory of the youngster.
Minnie’s aunt, Chloe Merriman, thanked the club on social media, saying the gesture had meant a great deal to the family and that her sister Laurie had been deeply moved by the support.
Meanwhile, a fundraising campaign established by family friend Stevie Walker is helping relatives meet expenses following the tragedy.
Walker said the family had been left facing profound grief and additional financial pressures, including journeys between Yorkshire and Scotland, temporary accommodation and replacing essential possessions after losing their home and belongings.
The appeal has so far collected more than £6,000.
By: Magdalene Agyeiwaa Sarpong