MAHAN’S DEATH WAS DUE TO DROWNING.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18381, 6 February 1928, Page 9

MAHAN’S DEATH WAS DUE TO DROWNING.

EXAMINATION BY DOCTOR DISPROVES THEORY OF MURDER.

The post-mnrten examination of the body of Charles James Mahan, who was found dead in Lyttelton Harbour in the early hours on Saturday morning, dispelled the idea current that Mahan had been murdered. The examination led Dr T. L. Crooke, by whom it was conducted. to give as its result “ death due to drowning." Further examinations of a formal nature will be made, in the shape of an analysis of certain organs. This is but a precautionary measure, however. The post-mortem revealed that the injuries on the face were very superficial. and could not possibly have been the cause of death. There were no marks of a struggle of any sort, such as bruises on the body. It is probable that the facial wounds were caused by fish. Such information as has been available states that Mahan's movements, until a matter of five minutes or so from the time when he is calculated to have entered the water, have been easily traced. There is nothing in

them that would lead to a suspicion of foul play. • It is not expected that the verdict of the Coroner at the inquest, which will be completed as soon as certain fact's are ascertained from Timaru, will express any conviction or theory that there has been foul play. The circumstances indicate that the fatality may have been accidental, and that the injuries mav be accounted for without supposing malicious violence.

The fact that the body was floating when found suggests that death occurred before immersion in the water, but it is not conclusive evidence on the point. The present indications are that no one was connected with the tragedy except the unfortunate man himself, and “ found drowned ” seems to sum up the total of information.

In connection with the report sent from Timaru, it was incorrectly stated that Mr Mahan, junr.. found his father in an hotel in Christchurch on Friday, and induced him to return home. The late Mr Mahan was not seen at all that day by his son.