DROWNING FATALITY.

Clutha Leader, Volume XLVII, Issue 51, 24 December 1920, Page 5

DROWNING FATALITY.

AT MANUKA ISLAND. • Yesterday afternoon, about 3.'30, an unfortunate accident- took place at Manuka Island whereby an elderly man named Frederick 'Watkins' <met his death by drowning in the Clutha Eiver. Deceased was employed by Mr JohnCameron, the lessee of Manuka Island, and at the time of the accident was engaged with two horses" in a dray in conveying a turnip .sower and seeds across to the island from the mainland. The place where; the 'ford is usually made was rather deeper than usual, and whilst on the way aeross 'Oamterotf called' out to deceased that he thought it was a bit deep., .Deceased returned and attempted another crossing, saying that lie had a mark and could manage it all right. On the second attempt the leading horse apparently got out ofi ..control!, and Cameron- called out to deceased to loose him, and again said to him that it was not safe. Deceased appeared to turn the 'horses upstream, but deep water was entered, aud deceased was seen to float downstream for about 100 yards before he was lost sight of. The news of the fatality was carly brought to OBalclutha, and Constable Weir proceeded to the scene of the accident. Dragging operations were commenced and continued till dark, but without result. They will foe further prosecuted to-day. Deceased was about.A3 years of age and single. The horse in the shafts "was also drowned, while the leader got stuck in the quicksands and was not secured for several hours later.