Murder at Masterton.

Pelorus Guardian and Miners' Advocate., Volume 6, Issue 46, 11 June 1895, Page 2

Murder at Masterton.

Masterton, June 7

A man named Andrew J. Somerville deliberately shot at and killed another, Arthur Herbert, in Queenstreet, this afternoon. Somerville had been working for Herbert, and a dispute regarding a claim for £l9 for wages occupied the S.M, Court this morning, the case being adjourned for a fortnight. Somerville, on leaving Court about mid-day, purchased a sixchambered revolver, and at about 4.30 was seen talking to Herbert outside the Club Hotel, several persons being in the street at the time. Suddenly he drew the revolver, and saying, “Take that!” fired a shot, which entered Herbert’s body in the region of the heart. The latter threw up his arms, and turning round, staggered across the street. Somerville fired two more shots at him, and Herbert fell dead, the bystanders scattering in all directions. Constables Collerton and Nestor, who were within 50 yards of the scene, rushed at the murderer and secured him. The latter took away the revolver, which, on examination, proved to have the three remaining chambers loaded. Somerville made no resistance, and remarked that he would go quietly. Both men are single. Herbert was an old settler ; the other had been working on several contracts in the district, and was generally looked upon as a quiet man. The affair caused no little sensation here.

June 8.

The inquest on the remains of Arthur Herbert concluded last evening, a verdict of wilful murder being returned against Andrew J. Somerville. No new facts were elicited. Somerville continues calm and unmoved. He will be charged before the S.M. Court this morning.

Herbert’s remains will be taken to Hunterville, Hawke’s Bay, where he has a wife and children.

Later,

Andrew John Somerville, the perpetrator of the crime, was charged at the Masterton Court to-day with wilful murder. Prisoner walked with a firm step into the Court, and beyond casting his eyes piercingly into the assembled crowd, seemed to take no interest in the proceedings. Mr Pownall appeared on behalf of the prisoner.

June 9

The man Somerville, the Masterton murderer, was brought down by last night’s train and lodged in the Terrace gaol, where he is watched day and night. He appeared to be quite calm and reserved it is said. He complained of the treatment he was subjected to in Masterton after his arrest, and that he was handcuffed all the time with his hands behind him.