STRUCK BY TWO MINES
(P.A.) WHANGAREI, Feb. 23. The cause of the Niagara’s sinking, was definitely traced to at least two mines, which disposes of any suspicion that the wreck may have been caused by internal explosions, according to a statement made in connection with the salvaging of the ship's gold. It is considered probable that the Niagara, after striking one mine, came in contact with another during her final plunge to the bottom. From the observation chamber it was seen that the main fracture was below No. 2 hold, the bottom plate of the ship in that area being blown away completely. In addition to this, a huge cavity extended aft from the lines of the funnels for about 240 feet. Had this damage been sustained while the ship was still afloat everybody in the engine-room would have been killed instantly, whereas actually no casualties occurred. It was also apparent that the Niagara had broken her back, probably as a result of her tremendous impact, with the sea coupled with the explosion of a second mine.
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Bibliographic details
Timaru Herald, Volume CLI, Issue 22205, 24 February 1942, Page 4
Word Count
177STRUCK BY TWO MINES Timaru Herald, Volume CLI, Issue 22205, 24 February 1942, Page 4
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