MURDER ALLEGED

Greymouth Evening Star, 18 April 1934, Page 7

MURDER ALLEGED

STATION COOK’S TRIAL

EVIDENCE FOR CROWN

[FEB PRESE ASSOCIATION.]

WAIPUKURAU, April 18. As the sequel to {he tragic happen-

mg on March 12, Harry Capewell, a cook, appeared at the Magistrate’s Court, this morning, on remand from Napier, where he had been sent from the Waipukurau Court, charged with the murder of John Williams, at Porangahau. The inquest proceedings, adjourned on March 1 at Waipukurau, were continued simultaneously before Dr. H. W. M. Kendall, District Coroner. Mr. H. B. Lusk, Crown Prosecutor at Napier, appeared, and Mr. C. G. Harker, of Waipawa, was for the accused. James Cecil Neale, registered surveyor, employed in the Lands and Survey Department, Napier, was the first witness. He said that on March 20, by the request of the police, he visited the Papakihau Station at Porangahau, in the company of Detective Sergeant Bickerdike and Constable Moss Sutton. The men’s quarters were poitned out to him. Witness took measurements and prepared a plan of the building now produced. Walter Thomas Budge, employed at Papakihau station, for about 20 years, said that deceased was also employed at the station, but left to go to Porangahau station, about three months before. He had known accused since January 1. Capewell had been employed as cook at Papakihau station from that date. On Sunday, March 11, witness was at the station at teatime. Accused was also there. He saw Williams at the station about five o’clock. He came through the diningroom when the employees were having tea, and went into the kitchen. Capewell was also there. Williams appeared jovial, and witness thought he may have had a spot or two, although witness wouldn’t say he was drunk. He often came to the station. Witness noticed a bottle that had been in Williams’ pocket. Witness, with the other employees went on to the back verandah. Later, Capewell and Williams also came there. He heard

Williams say to Capewell that “he was not going to take these jokes from him.” Capewell said it was quite alright. Williams appeared to be looking for trouble. Capewell went towards the kitchen. Williams remained a few minutes chatting.

(Proceeding).