Man arrested over death of nine-year-old girl in Arbroath 'was known to her'

A nine-year-old girl who died after being found seriously injured in Angus knew the 35-year-old man arrested in connection with her death.

The child, who was from West Yorkshire, was discovered in Elliot Industrial Estate in Arbroath shortly after midnight on Sunday.

She was taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee where she was pronounced dead. Her death is being treated as suspicious.

The girl’s family, who had been camping in the area, are being supported by specialist officers, Police Scotland said.

The girl was found injured in Elliot Industrial Estate in Arbroath STV News

Police have confirmed the nine-year-old and the 35-year-old, who is a white British man, were known to each other.

Officers are not looking for anyone else in connection with the girl’s death but extensive enquiries remain ongoing.

Detective inspector Mike Ness of the Major Investigation Team said: “Our thoughts remain with those affected by these events.

“Members of the public will see an increased police presence and activity in the area as enquiries continue. This is intended to reassure the public and anyone who may have information should approach these officers or contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0008 of Monday, August 3, 2026.”