LITTLE GIRL KNOCKED DOWN

Hokitika Guardian, 15 April 1929, Page 2

LITTLE GIRL KNOCKED DOWN

MO lOK IST CHARGED WITH

PASSING TRAM.

CHRISTCHURCH. April 13

The aftermath of an accident at t.lie corner of Colombo and Kilmore Street when a little girl was run over by a motor-car, was heard in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday morning. Eric Peal Genn (Mr Thomas) was charged with negligent driving and with passing a stationary tram-car. Mr E. C. Levvey, S.M., was on the Bench. Mr Thomas appeared for the accused;

Sub-Inspector O’Hare said that the 'defendant drove past a standing tram and ran over a little girl who was alighting from the tramcar. It was Stated that the defendant was driving along Colombo Street, at more than thirty miles per hour and that he flashed past the tram without pulling up at all. Evidence was given by William Harris, a butcher, who saw the accident from the door of his shop. He said that the car was travelling fast towards the stationary tramcar. The child ran round the front of the tram and was struck by the car, which was just slackening speed at the time. George Payner, the driver of the tram said that the little girl had watched the tram to make sure that it was still. He saw her throw up her hand as to ward off a blow, and then he saw the impact and heard a scream, 'flio back wheel went over the child The driver of the car then pulled up quickly and did everything possible for the child. Cross-examined witness said he was sure that the tram was stationary Mr Thomas said that the defendant pulled up, but lie was under the impression that the tram had started again and accerlerated to pass it. He had done everything possible for tho child.

Defendant gave evidence along those

lines.

“There was undoubtedly a breach of the regulations,” said the Magistrate, “hut there is no evidence of negligent driving. On that charge defendant is dismissed. On the other charge he is fined 10s and costs.”