Tragic End to Brothers’ Quarrel

Manawatu Times, Volume 70, Issue 290, 8 December 1945, Page 6

Tragic End to Brothers’ Quarrel

BOY CHARGED WITH MURDER (Per Press Association.) AUCKLAND, Dec. 7. “Accused in this case has been the victim of a series of unfortunate and tragic coincidences,” said Air. B. 8. Barry, on behalf of John Clifford Crozier, aged 16, who appeared in the Whakatane Alagistrate's Court on a capital charge regarding the death of his brother, Donald Kingsley Crozier, on November 17. Air. Barry sdid that practically everyone in the Court could recall similar incidents in which from, a friendly argument heated exchanges had arisen and blows been struck. Unfortunately, in this case the result had been a tragedy of the first magnitude and the greatest sympathy was felt for all concerned. Counsel, submitting that there had been no possible intention to do serious injury, asked that the charge be reduced to one of assault. The father of the boys, Robert Hector Crozier, sharemilker, of Edgecombe, said that, when his sons did not return from feeding the pigs, a search was made without success. The search was continued on the following day and early next morning accused was found

asleep in his room. When awakened, accused said his brother was near some cabbage trees by the house. Witness found the body of the other son lying in an overgrown drain. Witness added that the boys were the best of friends aud were always together. Accused, with another brother, had been instrumental in saving the lives of two young girls in the Whakatane River two years ago and held a Scout certificate of merit.

Detective-Sergeant Waterson produced a statement alleged to have been made by the accused. In this, he said he went with his brother to the pig pens. He picked up a shovel handle which he used as a baseball bat. Later an argument developed as to their relative merits as marksmen with a rifle and as to the possession of their father's rifle next year. After more heated argument the brother pushed him aud turned to run away. Accused

made a swiug at his brother with the shovel handle, which unfortunately hit his head. He could not recollect clearly what happened next. The police said the boy’s reputation in the district was exceptionally good. The Alagistrate said he had no power to reduce the charge. Accused pleaded not guilty, reserved his defence, and was committed tor trial. Bail was allowed.