CROSSING SMASH

Hokitika Guardian, 12 November 1936, Page 6

CROSSING SMASH

A LORRY STRUCK.

FATHER AND SON INJURED.

(Per Press Association.—Copyright)

CHRISTCHURCH. November 12

The scene of som e of the most •Anclenig accidents that have occurred close to the city, Sockburn railway crossing, to-day aided still one more to its tally. A father and son were injured when the Little River train, outward bound from tie city, smashed into a lorry on the crossing at 8.11 o’clock.

The father, Henry 'Williams, is suffering from terrible head injuries. The son, Bryan Williams who is five years of age, suffered bad cuts and bruises.

The father is reported to be in grave danger of his life. The boy’s condition is not serious. Both have been admitted to the Christchurch public hospital. - There was a terrific impact, the engine smashing into the forefront of the truck and swinging the heavy vehicle, which was laden with a tank containing two tons of tar, completely round and scattering broken pieces of wood and steel over a wide area. The front wheels. and springs of tire lorry were torn off and Sent hurtling through tlie air like a giant double headed missive nearly thirty yards from the crossing.

This flying combination of rubber and steel, which weighed over a quarter of a ton, crashed into a shop erandah post, snapped it off and with its flight deflected, tore down a large portion of a picket fence adjacent to the shop. It came 10 rest when it struck a tree.

The truck, which had turned out of Smith Street to tli e crossing on tlie main road, was struck on the driving side. Williams was thrown out as the truck was slewn violently i oundi hitting the paved road some yards from the crossing. The hoy was also thrown out and had a miraculous escape from serious injury.