INCIDENT AT CHATEAU

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XXV, Issue 232, 17 September 1935, Page 7

INCIDENT AT CHATEAU

Manager Seriously Hurt

SEQUEL TO NOISY PARTY (By Telegraph—Press Association.) AUCKLAND, September 17. Police action is possible as a result of a sensational incident at the Chateau Tongariro early on Monday of last week. It is alleged that in an affray in which a visitor was concerned, the manager, Mr. R. Cobbe, received such severe injuries that until last Friday it was doubtful whether he would recover. He is still an inmate of Taumarunui Hospital suffering from serious head injuries, but is stated to be making a satisfactory recovery. It is understood that if court action is taken several men well known in New Zealand will be called as witnesses.

An Auckland resident, who was a guest at the hostel at the time, stated that an incident arose from a big party attended by some Xerth Island socially prominent people. The party was held on Sunday night week, and developed to such an extent that after midnight other guests made a complaint to the management.

The visitor stated that at this stage silver salvers were being kicked about the floor, and there were other disturbances.

Mr Cobbe, as manager of the Chateau, went to remonstrate, but as a result of the reception he received it is alleged he left the party to call in the assistance of his hall porters. Mr Cobbe was walking down a passage away from the party, the visitor stated, when lie was attacked and knocked down, the porters having to come to his rescue. Mr Cobbe was bleeding about the face and was in such a bad way, it is stated, that he had to be carried to his bed. His condition did not improve and on the Wednesday a doctor was called in and ordered Mr Cobbe’s immediate removal to Taumarunui Hospital. His condition was serious on Thursday, but later he began to improve. It is understood the police were informed of the incident on Wednesday night following advice given by the doctor.

Mr. Cobbe was struck three times on the side of the forehead, the blows bruising the brain. It is also alleged that he was struck while down. Mr. Cobbe is still in hospital. He is slightly better to-day, but it may be weeks before he recovers.