DOUBLE TRAGEDY.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIV, Issue 87, 13 April 1933, Page 7

DOUBLE TRAGEDY.

MAN AND WOMAN DEAD I

GRAVE THROAT INJURIES.

BROKEN ENGAGEMENT SEQUEL

(By Telegraph.—Press Association.)'

PALMERSTON N., this day. .Shortly before 8 o'clock last evening there was a tragic happening, as the outcome of which two people died at the back of the San Toy tea rooms, in Rangitikei Street, near the Square, almost in the heart of the business area. The victims were: — Helen (Nella) Margaret Motley, aged 24, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. G. Motley, who conduct the tea rooms. Jerthur Soley, aged 39, formerly of Australia, and lately of Palmers Iju North. The occurrence was a 'matter of seconds only, and th! circumstances indicate that it was a case of murder and suicide. The girl was not able even to give warning, while Soley would appear to have immediately afterwards turned the razor he had used on Miss Motley on himself. According, to a statement made by the girl's father, Uie girl and Solay had been engaged since Christmas, and their wedding was fixed for Easter Monday. Last week Soley said: "I'll be straight. I cannot get married. My wife and children are not dead." It had been understood by the Motley family that Soley. was a widower, as he had said his wife was buried at Goulburn, Australia. Soley also said he had hoped to get a divorce. The engagement was immediately cancelled, and the father ordered Soley to leave the premises. Before doing so Soley allegedly said, "I will fix you. I will see you again." Nothing more was seen of Soley until last evening. Miss Motley and her married sister had dressed for a dance, and on coming into the kitchen heard Soley at- the back door call, "Peggy, come here a minute." He had known Nella Motley as Peggy. She went out, and immediately afterwards a noise was heard oil the door. Investigation disclosed Miss Motley and Soley lying on the ground with fearful throat' wounds. The girl was beyond human aid, and Soley, who was dying and could not speak, was removed to the hospital, where he succumbed shortly after Ms admission.

The family was horrified, as the barest interval of time elapsed between the girl's responding to Soley'ds call and the noise on the door.