ENGINEER'S DEATH.

Press, Volume LXV, Issue 19726, 17 September 1929, Page 13

ENGINEER'S DEATH.

STEAMER'S VAIN RACE TO PORT. {THB PBESS, Special Berrie*.] AUCKLAND, September 16. A race of 274 miles to port to ot>tain medical aid for a dying manias made by the Hain Line steamer Tregoiiell, which reached Auckland this evening. The effort was in vain, as theman died half an hour before Hie vessel anchored in the harbour. Deceased was Reginald Nicholas, second engineer erf the vessel, and his death occurredunder tragic cirtmmfctancee. He was found' in his bunk shortly before 8 o'clock on Sunday morning bleeding profusely from a wound in the throat. A pen knife was lying near his right hand. First aid was given by Captain S. Richards, master of the vessel, and'-also tlie '-chiefsteward. It was seem, at once that the condition of Nicholas was serious owing to the large amount of blood lost, ana the only hope of saying his life was to obtain medical aid as .soon : as possible. The steamer ■ wa« then 45 miles west north-west .of .the Three. Bangs and was en route from Westport to Naturn Island. Her course was at once altered towards Auckland aud a wireless report of the happening was sent to the local agents. Throughout Sunday and Monday the Tregonell's engines were worked to their utmost power in their race against death. Tne . odds, however, were against the patient, who was sinking rapidly and was only really conscious onoe for a short period. He died when the vessel was in Rangitoto Channel and almost within reach of medical aid When the first wireless report reached Auckland on Sunday, Mr A- H.

Sinel, local representative of the Nenr Zealand Shipping Comuany, made all arrangements for the patient's quick transport to hospital. lie matter of the usual port does on t.hn vessel had bron waived by the. Barbour Board owing to the seriousness of the circumstances. However, when the Tregonell arrived' in harbour it was announced that Nicholas had died. The body was brought ashore in a launch. If passible an inquest will be held in the morning. It is expected the vessel will resume her voyage to-morrow evening. Nicholas, who was married, was 37 years of age, and hia home is in Barry. South Wales. He had been in I the Tregonell for eight months.