CROSSING CRASH

Greymouth Evening Star, 19 June 1936, Page 2

CROSSING CRASH

WOMAN DRIVER’S DEATH

[per press association.]

GORE, June 18

In connection with the fatal accident at Waipahi railway crossing, 10 miles north of Gore, shortly after noon, in which Mrs. Jessie Shaw, of Balfour, was killed, when a five-sealer sedan car hit a. goods train, it has now been ascertained that Mrs. Shaw was driving the car. The other occupants were: John Shaw, farmer, of Balfour, husband of the deceased: lan Claude Butler, farm hand, of Ardlussa; also his mother, Mrs. Rose Butler, and his sister. Miss Hilda Mary Christine Butler. all of Balfour. The car was proceeding Io Dunedin. It is believed that Mrs. Shaw heard the train whistle, but she did not know from what direction it was coming. The visibility was bad, due to trees and to heavy flakes of snow. The driver applied the brakes. The car stopped on the rails. It was hit in the centre. Tho force of the impact caused the door on the driver’s side to fly open. Mrs. Shaw was flung out, landing on her head on the cattle stop. Death was instantaneous. The other occupants had miraculous escapes, as they were imprisoned m the car. which was carried a considerable distance, and then was thrown clear, landing on its side. Jhe injuries of the other occupants merely comprised bruises and shock. Th a deceased lady was 45 years ol age. She was born at Oamaru. She was married some 12 months ago.