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, 35, from Wakefield, West Yorkshire, killed Minnie Merriman.
Minnie died in Dundee's Ninewells Hospital on 3 August. Mr Rice, who was remanded in custody, made no plea during a second private appearance via videolink at Forfar Sheriff Court and was fully committed for trial.
Emergency services were called to the Elliot Industrial Estate in Arbroath shortly after midnight on 3 August after reports of a child being found injured. Minnie was taken to Ninewells Hospital alongside four other people, but later died from her injuries. Police Scotland stated they are not looking for anyone else in connection with Minnie's death.
Minnie's family previously paid tribute to their "beloved, absolutely incredible, beautiful and brave Minnie Moo". A close family friend has set up a GoFundMe appeal to support the family with travel and living costs as they face regular journeys between Yorkshire and Scotland.
Meanwhile, NHS Tayside is continuing to investigate an alleged data breach concerning Minnie's medical records. The health board said it was "investigating the circumstances" of the alleged breach, which occurred in a clinical area where staff access patient information.