A father has been arrested after a nine-year-old girl died and three other people were injured during a family camping trip to an industrial estate in Arbroath, Scotland. Emergency services were called to Elliot Industrial Estate just after midnight on Monday following concerns for the family's wellbeing.
The family, from West Yorkshire, had set up a small camp on the deserted estate close to a beach in Arbroath. The girl was taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, where she was pronounced dead. Police are treating her death as suspicious.
Details of the incident
Scottish Ambulance Service received a call at 23:53 on Sunday, August 2, to attend the incident. Four ambulance response vehicles were dispatched, and four patients were transported to Ninewells Hospital. The father was arrested in connection with the incident.
A local resident who drove past the scene described seeing an electric car parked in the middle of the makeshift camp on the edge of an oil firm's car park. She said: "It was a two-man, pop-up tent that you'd get in a supermarket. It wasn't a substantial camping tent. The parents looked like they were cooking food on an outdoor camping stove. I thought it was pretty strange given there's a beach two minutes away and that's a lot more picturesque."
Community response
A paper merchant with an office in the industrial park posted on Facebook: "We here at Squadron Prints offer our sincere condolences to her family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are also with everyone involved with this tragedy, the police, paramedics and others who assisted but also those who work on this industrial estate who had to deal with the shock whilst arriving to work. Rest in peace little one – we will never forget you!"
The incident has shocked the local community in Arbroath, a town known for its picturesque coastline and historic harbour. The industrial estate, typically bustling with business activity during the day, was the scene of a tragic event that has left many residents and workers in disbelief.
Ongoing investigation
Police have cordoned off the area as part of their investigation. The exact circumstances surrounding the girl's death remain unclear, but authorities are treating it as suspicious. The father is currently in police custody, and further inquiries are ongoing.
The family's decision to camp on an industrial estate, rather than at one of the nearby campsites or the beach, has raised questions. The local resident noted that the beach was only two minutes away and more picturesque, making the choice of location seem unusual.
As the investigation continues, the community has come together to offer support to the family and to those affected by the tragedy. The paper merchant's message reflects the sentiment of many: a heartfelt tribute to the young girl and a call for unity during this difficult time.
Authorities are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to come forward to assist with the investigation. The police have not released further details about the family or the events leading up to the incident, but they have assured the public that they are working diligently to uncover the truth.
