THE KAUANGAROA TRAGEDY.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XLI, Issue 11367, 13 October 1917, Page 4

THE KAUANGAROA TRAGEDY.

VERDICT OF WILFUL MURDER (Per Press Association.} WAX(I ANUI, Last Night. Frank Bonnier appeared before tho Court to-day charged with tho wilful murder of his wife, cue of tho victims of the Kauangaroa tragedy. Evidence was similar to that at the coroner’s inquiry, whore a verdict equivalent to one of wilful murder was returned. It was shown that Bonnier in tho early hours of the morning attacked seven sleeping people with an axe. His wife succumbed to her injuries. Witnesses si ate that Bonnier was addicted to drink, and was not on fricndlv terms with his wife owing to his drinking habits. / Sergeant Bourke said that on ono occasion Bonnier, -when slightly under the influence of liquor, called at the police station to ask for police assistance to me.ke his wife return to him. Witness said the police could not interfere, and Eennier then threatened ‘■'Tn do for her" and also himself. Accused was committed for trial at tin' Iviipreme Court on this charge and also on a charge of attempted murder of the other victims.