AN INFANT'S DEATH.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXV, Issue 307, 28 December 1914, Page 2

AN INFANT'S DEATH.

STRUCK BY P.W.D. TRAIN AT

KOHURATAHI.

A sad accident occurred on Saturday afternoon at Kohuratahi, when the little 17 months old son of Ralph Bush, carpenter, of Kohuratahi, got on to the line (the parents' home being close to the line), and was caught by the cow-catcher of the Public Works train, receiving scalp wounds. The driver did his best to pull up before reaching the child, but owing to the heavy load and the train being on the down grade he was unable to do so. The child was seen by Dr. Hitchcock, who advised removal to the Stratford Hospital, which was reached at 5.30. The little patient was attended by Dr. Steven, but no hopes were held out and the little sufferer died at 4 o'clock on Sunday morning. Much sympathy is expressed for the sad loss the parents have sustained.

"ACCIDENTAL DEATH."

The inquest was held at the Police Station this morning, being conducted bv Coroner C. D. Sole.

Evidence was given by Driver John Roos, in charge of the Public Works train, who said Mr Bush's house was six feet from the line and there was a I wire netting fence in front to keep the child in. When approaching the house, he saw the child walk on the railway line, and immediately applied the Westinghouse brake and reversed the engine. The ballast train was on a down grade travelling at a speed of 12 miles an hour, having a weight of 85 tons behind, and the effect was to skid the wheels. The child unfortunately turned and walked back towards the engine, and was knocked down and carried a few feet under the cowcatcher, the wheel not touching the child. Prompt action was taken, the engine being detached and the little one taken to Whanganiomona, where, after being seen by Dr. Hitchcock, the little patient was brought to Stratford Hospital. Guard Watt gave corroborative evidence.

A verdict was returned that the child was accidentally killed by the railway train, no blame being attached to anyone.

The Foreman of the jury added a rider, commending the prompt action of the driver in endeavouring to avert the accident, the jury having considered he acted with great promptitude.