EXPLOSION IN HALL

Taranaki Daily News, 31 March 1934, Page 15 (Supplement)

EXPLOSION IN HALL

BENZINE TANK ACCIDENT.

’ YOUTH GRAVELY INJURED.

Dargaville, March 22. A serious accident happened to Herbert Watkins, the 19-year-old son of Mr. F. Watkins, of Ruawai, while he was attending a wrestling practice m the Whenuanui Hall, and he now lies in the Te Kopuru Hospital m a critical condition. . , « + During the practice it was found that the benzine lighting system was not functioning properly. Thereupon young Watkins made an investigation. He considered there was a blockage m the pipes, and proceeded to pump more air, when, without the least warning, the pump blew up, and a piece struck him on the head. Rendered unconscious by the blow, his companions saw at °hce that he was seriously hurt, and had him taken to the hospital, some miles distant. A medical examination revealed that the injured youth was suffering from a fractured skull and his condition is considered to be very grave. . . .. . Other young men in the vicinity ot the exploding tank had narrow escapes and none were injured. Fortunately, all present kept their presence of mind, and did not strike matches, ' otherwise there would have been a serious fire, as benzine was spilled all over the room in which the lighting plant was installed.