THE PAKEHA TRAGEDY

Greymouth Evening Star, 11 June 1919, Page 5

THE PAKEHA TRAGEDY

CHARGE OF MANSLAUGHTER. ACCUSED BEFORE THE COURT. (Per P.vess Association.) WELLINGTON, This Day. On remand, Sergt. Edward Geo. Furling' Marsden appeared at the Magistrate's Court this morning on a charge of manslaughter in connection with the death of Staff Sergt.-Major Samuel Stanley Choate on the transport Pakeha on 26th May. Chief Detective Boddam, in opening, said that there was no evidence to justify the slightest suspicion of animosity between the men.

• Quartermaster-Sergt. G. L. Messenger, who was on the Pakeha, said that on 26th May he was talking to Marsden on the deck near one of the latrines built of wood and bolted to the deck with iron rods. Choate came along, and, taking Marsden by the arm, said: "Have you any property of mine " adding in reply to Marsden that he meant a cap. Marsden said "Yes," and took a civilian cap off his head ancfl placed it on Choate's. Choate then asked Marsden if the latter had a mirror of his. Marsden said "No," and Choate, who appeared to get excited, replied, "You're a liar. Marsden asked Choate to take his words back. Choate refused, and Marsden struck him with his fist. Choate struck back hitting Marsden. The latter slipped and fell. He got up and struck Choate again. Choate slipped and fell, striking his head on the side of the latrine. The deck was fairly wet. The men had always been friendly prior to this. The soldiers had slipped on deck while wearing- service boots. Choate exhibited more temper than Marsden.

Company Sergf. Mackay and Sergt. Lockett gave corroborative evidence. Owing to the non-appearance of another witness, Surgeon-Captain Gordon from the South, further hearing was adjourned till to-moi*-row.