FATAL FIRE

Dominion, Volume 9, Issue 2588, 9 October 1915, Page 13

FATAL FIRE

MAORI HOSTELRY BURNT sensational developments EXPECTED. i (By Teleerarh.—Press Association.t V/hangarei, October 8. A fatal fire occurred at Whangarei at 2.30 o'clock this morning, when the Mapuna Private / Hotel, used as a Maori hostelry, and its contents, were totally destroyed. Tho building was occupied by about 37 ■ Natives,' most of whom were in for tho Native Land Court. It was a wooden building, and the .fire spread rapidly and was soon out of control of the brigade. After the fire ,- it was found that three persons were missing—A. Oxley, a Native of Barbadoes, aged 51, the proprietor; his son, aged 12; and a Native named Paihopa. They had perished in $o flames,' Many Natives had narrow escapes and had to descend from the verandah in their-night-clothes. : A cottage, property adjoining was also ; destroyed, but the contents were saved,. The hotel was insured for £750; there was nothing ou tie contents. The estimated loss is £1800.. The Maori' victim was an uncle of Mr. Tail Jleuare, M.P. ' Sensational developments are expected. There are indications t/hat. Oxley shot his son and committed suicide, after firing the house. He left-, a letter for Mr. and Mrs. Hayds, Taii■marumii, stating that lie intended to commit/ suicide. ,