The Pahiatua Poisoning Fatality.

Waipawa Mail, Volume XIV, Issue 2711, 21 January 1892, Page 2

The Pahiatua Poisoning Fatality.

(per press association)

(by telegraph.)

Pahiatua, This day.

The inquest on the victims of the poisoning fatality, which will be resumed at six o’clock this evening, will probably be concluded about midnight. Ten witnesses are to be examined. The evidence of Dr Skey, Government Analyst, and Mrs Naylor, in whose house the wedding took place, will have the most important bearing on the case. Arsenic was found in the stomach of deceased, but not tlie slightest trace of poison of any kind was discovered in the various articles of food forwarded to the Government analyst. It should be mentioned, however, that none of the lamb, which is supposed to have contained poison, could be procured for analysis, the remains of the dish having been thrown away before the symptoms of the guests became alarming. Evidence will be given to show that dogs which picked up the meat and eat it were attacked by a severe fit of vomiting, but that they recovered shortly afterwards. Mrs Naylor’s evidence go in the direction of showing that there is reason to believe the poison was put in the food by design, and that the sad affair was not the result of accident. The police have made every effort, but have been unable to ascertain where the poison was purchased. Dr Skey, Dr Milne (who attended deceased), Mr Ridd (the local chemist), and Mrs Naylor, who will be called in the order named, are expected to be able to throw the most light on the occurrence. Intense interest is taken in the enquiry iu the township and surrounding district.