THE DROWNING CASE AT HELENA BAY.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXVII, Issue 8162, 25 January 1890, Page 5

THE DROWNING CASE AT HELENA BAY.

TiIK late sad drowning accident, which took place in Whaugaruru harbour on Sunday, January 12, already mentioned in our columns, has thrown a gloom over the people of tho entire neighbourhood. On Sunday morning, the 19th instant, about the same hour at which the accident occurred on the previous Sunday, the body of the deceased was found by Mr. Win. Lloyd and his son, of Whangururu, as it was rising to the surface. Mr. Lloyd, as also the good natives, have been most assiduous in their endeavours to rescue the unfortunate young man's body over since the day of the sad accident The body was immediately conveyed to his late residence, a considerable number of the natives in their bosta accompanying it, which showed their respect tor the deceased, between whom and themselves thero always existed the kindliest feeling possible. A coffin having been already prepared to receive the body, it was at once placed therein to await the necessary inquest. The inquest was held at the Helena Bay Inn, on January 20th, before Mr. Jamea Whitelaw, J.P., and a jury, of whom Mr. William Eoote was chosen foreman. After heating the sad evidence, they returned a verdict of "Accidentally drowned by the capsizing of his own sailing boat." His remains were immediately afterwards interred, in the presence of a large number of residents of the surrounding neighbourhood, who had assembled on the sorrowful occasion to show their sincere regard for one who, it may be said, was universally loved and respected. His very sudden departure from amongst us is all the more deeply felt, as poor young Mr. Williams was of such a contented and happy disposition of mind, it might bo said of him that he was one of the few found amongst mankind who was perfectly content with his surroundings in life. The deceased was in his 24th year, and was a native of the parish of North Petherton, Somersetshire, England. He received his education at St. Gregory's College, Downside, near Bath. —[A Correspondent.]