MURDER OF WOMAN

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24775, 27 November 1941, Page 6

MURDER OF WOMAN

DETAILS OF TRAGEDY ARREST OF SUSPECT CHARGED, WITH CRIME (P.A.) ■ 'PALMERSTON N„ Nov. 26. About noon to-day an' arrest was made in connection with the death of Mrs F. J. Speight, who was found with fatal head injuries in her home last night. The man taken into custody was charged with murder, but he has yet to appear before the court. Further information relating to the shocking tragedy, which occurred shortly after 9 o’clock last night, when Mrs F. J. Speight, aged about 35, was found with fatal head injuries in her home, shows that, while sitting in his kitchenette studying a road map, a neighbour, Mr E., R. Harris, heard screqms, which immediately gave cause for alarm.

Escape of Assailant Mr Harris next heard further screams, the sound of blows, and other sounds as of something being torn. He called to Mr V. D. Christensen. another neighbour, who summoned the police by telephone Constable J. Gunn arrived, and while he was at the front door of Speight's house a man rode a bicycle hurriedly down the drive and out on to the road. , . The living room inside the house was in great disorder. Mrs Speight, although still breathing, was unconscious, with terrible head injuries from which she died within an hour. Mr Speight was at Rangiwahia, about 30 miles distant from the city, and returned immediately when advised of the tragedy. The boy returned home at 10,30 p.m. from the pictures, unaware of the occurrence.

Police Cordon Drawn Rapid work was carried out by the police last evening. As soon as the seriousness of the case was realised Inspector H. Scott, in charge of the police district, had a strong squad of detectives and constables organised to carry through the first inquiries. As the night progressed these naturally were extended to embrace a wider compass. Practically all the men in both detective and uniform branches of the police stationed here were immediately called out and remained on duly throughout the night. The district stations were notified and all roads leading to other districts were guarded, the not extending from Otaki to Marton and on the route to Hawke's Bay. It is believed the assailant used a hammer wrapped in a cloth.