EXPLOSION IN CARGO.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 51, Issue 129, 13 March 1931, Page 5

EXPLOSION IN CARGO.

CHINESE STEAMER BLOWN UP. OVER 230 PASSENGERS KILLED. (United Press Association —Copyright). SHANGHAI, March 12. The Revenue cruiser Chuentiao lias arrived here bringing 119 survivors of the small Chinese steamer Tachi, which was blown up 60 miles from Shanghai while carrying 350 passengers, of whom 100 were soldiers. The latter boarded the vessel at Woosung, talcing possession. and scattering lighted cigarette ends indiscriminately. These ignited the cargo of cotton, which caused a terrific explosion. The Chuentiao rushed to the scene and rescued 119 survivors.' The remainder perished. The Chuentiao recovered seven bodies.

TWO EXPLOSIONS OCCUR. - . 'i 350 NOW .REPORTED MISSING. (Received This Day, 8.30 a.m.) SHANGHAI, March 12. Revenue cruiser officers _ who were eve-witnesses of the explosion on the Tachi state that they were approaching the vessel, having observed the flames, when there was a blinding flash in the forepart of the vessel. It was impossible that any of the crew theie could have survived. The captain lowered the stern anchors, when there was a second explosion, which rent the Tachi, scattering human bodies and portions of the hull oyer .the river. The panic-stricken passengers had previously leapt overboard into the water, which for a quarter of a mile was dotted with heads uttering piteous cries for help. . . , nrn The latest estimate is that 350 are missing.