Bennier Hanged

Manawatu Times, Volume XL, Issue 13791, 21 January 1918, Page 5

Bennier Hanged

THE KAUANGAKOA TRAGEDY. On Saturday morning, at 8 a.im, in the Terrace Gaol, Frank Edwards' flfenuier,, convicted of the murder of his wife at Kuangaroa, in the Wanganui district, in September of last year, paid the extreme penalty of the law. After the crime, it will be remembered, Bennier attempted suicide, and was found in a shed some 200 yards away from the scene of the tragedy with his throat cut. The self-inflicted wound did not, however, prove fatal, medical attention, saving the man’s life.

Since he has been in prison doubts have been cast on the sanity of Bennier, but eventually the Executive decided that the law must take its course.

Throughout, Bennier has maintained a stolid demeanour, and at times almost appened to bo indifferent. When told that tlie death sentence was to be earned out he made no reply, and in all the conversations ho had with the Rev. H. Watson, of St. Peter’s Church, during the ministrations of the latter towards the end, never once was mention made of the crime.

On Friday night Benier apparently passed a restful night, and Mr Watson was with him until about 11 o’clock. He ate a hearty breakfast on Saturday morning. Punctually to the appointed time the grim procession, headed by the chaplain, left the condemned cell. With his arms pinioned to his sides and a warder on cither side of him, Bennier walked with firm step to the scaffold. Asked if he desired to say anything he signified that he did, and in a low but clear voice he said:—

“I wish to thank the ministers for their kindness, and (after a pause) may God protect ray

children.”

The white cap was then adjusted and in a few seconds the bolt of the drop was drawn and all was over. Death was instantaneous.