THE WESTPORT MURDER.

Marlborough Express, Volume XLIII, Issue 118, 17 May 1909, Page 8

THE WESTPORT MURDER.

TRIAL OF CONNELLY

[press association.]

CHRISTCHURCH, May 17. '_ The trial of Win. Connelley, charged with the murder of Ernest John Burke at Westport on the night of May 8, 1908, commenced in the Supreme Court this morning. Mr T. W. Stringer, K. C, for the Crown, in a long and exhaustive opening speech, set out the facts as follows: Burke was found in a dying condition in a stable-yard; Olaf Halinen and Anders Anderson, two seamen, were charged with having caused his death,' were convicted, and while in gaol Halinen died; Subsequently Connelly, who had been a witness-in the trial, was - charged with having committed perjury in the case, and was convicted on this charge. Anderson was pardoned and released. Connelly is now 'charged -with having committed the murder.

Mr A. C. Hanlon, of Dunedin, is appearing for the defence.