FIRE AT ORIENTAL BAY

Hawera Star, Volume L, 4 December 1930, Page 9

FIRE AT ORIENTAL BAY

WIDOW’S TRAGIC DEATH. LOST DIRECTION IN SMOKE. (By Telegraph—Press Association.} WELLINGTON, Dec. 4. In connection with the Oriental Bay fire deceased is Airs Ellen Watson, aged 07. Actually -she collapsed near an | open window" after a desperate attempt had been made to escape, and her dead body was round by the brigade after the' flames were got under control. It is surmised that she; lost her sense of direction groping through the smoke, and she appeared at the bathroom window crying for help. A courageous attempt to rescue her was made- by several boarders. A ladder was placed on the kitchen landing, but it proved too short. A younger person than deceased might have been able to .reach it. Regarding Grey it is understood he returned to, his room to get, Nome papers. He is suffering from head injuries, burns and shock. The house was severely damaged by fire and water. It is insured for £ISOO. while Airs Watson had a cover of £3OO on her furniture. Part of the house 1 was occupied by Miss Aubrey, whose furniture is insured. Deceased was the widow of George Watson, formerly the City Council’s chief sanitary inspector. '