FATAL FALL ON ROCKS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LV, Issue 17040, 23 December 1918, Page 6

FATAL FALL ON ROCKS.

ACCIDENT AT PONSONBY.

DEATH OF MR. R. MASEFIELD.

A fatal accident occurred -on the Pon sou by waterfront on Saturday afternoon, about two o'clock, Mr. It. R. 0. Masoticld, of tho firm of Messrs. Masefield and Co., engineers and iron founders, Auckland, being killed instantly. Mr. Masefield, who was an enthusiastic yachtsman, was on his way to the beach tumako final preparations for a two weeks' launch cruise. He was burdened with a tin of benzine and a bag of clothing, and •when descending the steps to the waterfront at the end of Sarsfield Street he slipped and fell a distance of about 12ft on to some rocks. Ho landed on his head, and when picked up was found to be dead.

An inquest was held at deceased's residence, Masefield Avenue, off Sarsfie'ld Street, yesterday morning by Mr. J. E. Wilson. S.M. Evidence was given by Dr. H. F. Holmden regarding the injuries sustained by deceased. These included a fracture on the left side of the skull, a broken neck, and laceration of the brain. A verdict of accidental death was returned in accordance with the medical testimony. .Mr. Masefield,. who was popularly known as " Reg " among a large circle of friends, was 48 years of age, and was prominent in athletic circles some years ago. He was a noted Rugby footballer, ard represented Auckland on several occasions. He leaves a widow. His father, the late Mr. T. T. Masefield, was one of the' early ironfounders of Auckland, and was a member of the Harbour Board for seme years.