A FATAL FIRE.

Colonist, Volume XLIX, Issue 11969, 24 June 1907, Page 4

A FATAL FIRE.

A LODGER [LOSES "HIS LIFE. Invercargill, June 23. "The Ofcautau Hotel |was destroyed by fire early on Saturday ttorning, when Mr W. Carnahan lost his life. The fire originated in a back bedroom, and spread with great rapidity. Some of the lodgers escaped in theii nightclothes, carrying in their arms what clothing they could hastilj - snatch up. When Mr Carnahan 's absence was noticed, it was too late t attempt to sucoour him, the whole building being then in flames. A strong westerly wind was blowing, and the fire spread to Wood's (tailoring establishment), and the National Bank, both of which buildings were destroyed. The opposite buildings had a very narrow escape. Only a few articles were saved from the hotel, and Mr Woods lost nearly the whole stock. Several of the lodgers in the hotel lost their belongings. The National Bank office contained only a little furniture. Mr CarDahan's body was found in the ruins of the hotel. The hotel belonged to Mr R. Acheson, and was insured in the Alliance Office for £750.