Police Scotland arrest man known to girl after nine-year-old dies in Arbroath

A nine-year-old girl died after being found injured at Elliot industrial estate in Arbroath in the early hours of Monday. Police Scotland confirmed the child, who was camping in the area with her family from West Yorkshire, was taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee where she later died. The death is being treated as suspicious.

A 35-year-old man was arrested in connection with the incident. Police Scotland said the man was known to the girl and that they are not seeking anyone else. The force described the arrested individual as white and British. The girl’s family, who are from West Yorkshire, had been camping near the industrial estate.

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Increased police presence in Arbroath

Detective Inspector Mike Ness, leading the investigation, said officers would maintain a visible presence in the area. He asked anyone with information to speak to officers or call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0008 of 3 August. Ness said the increased activity was intended to reassure the public.

A blue forensic tent was set up on a grass verge outside Halliburton’s Arbroath manufacturing facility. The area was cordoned off, with police vehicles and officers guarding the scene. Floral tributes were left near the cordon on Monday morning.

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We’re quite devastated by the news. Our kids are just not safe anywhere, it’s just heartbreaking.

Dawn Reid, Arbroath resident

Community reacts to the death

Arbroath East and Lunan councillor Lois Speed described the news as heartbreaking. Speed told the Press Association the community was in shock. She said her thoughts were with the girl, her family and those closely affected. Speed did not provide further details about the incident.

Dawn Reid, an Arbroath resident, laid flowers at the industrial estate on Monday. Reid told the Press Association she felt devastated by the news. She said the girl’s mother faced a long and difficult period ahead. Reid added there was no need for such violence.

What happens next

Police Scotland have not released the name of the arrested man or the girl. The force said inquiries were continuing. Residents can expect to see officers in the area while the investigation remains open. No date has been set for the conclusion of the forensic examination at Elliot industrial estate.