ALLEGED MANSLAUGHTER.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXVI, Issue 17594, 12 June 1919, Page 9

ALLEGED MANSLAUGHTER.

THE PAKEHA CASE

(Per Press Association.) WELLINGTON, June 11. On remand, Sergeant Edward George Furling Marsden appeared at the Magistrate's Court this morning ot a charge of manslaughter in connection with the death of Staff Ser-geant-Major Samuel Stanley Choate, on the transport Paikeha on 26th May.

Chief Detective Boddam In opening the case, said there was no evidence to justify the slightest suspicion of animosity between the men.

Quartermaster-Sergeant L. Messenger, who was on the Pakeha, said that on 2Cth May he was talking to Marsden on deck near one of the latrines, which was built or wood and bolted to the deck with iron rods. Choats came along, and, taking Marsden by the arm, said, "Have you any property of mine?" adding, in reply to Marsden, that he meant a cap. Marsden said, "Yes," and took a civilian cap off his head and placed it on Choate's. Choate then asked Marsden if the latter had a mirror of his. Maraden said "No," and Choate, who appeared to get excited, replied, "You're » liar." Marsden asked Choats to take t?\e words back. Choate refused, and Marsden struck him with his fist. Choato struck back, hitting Mar3den. The latter slipped and fell, got up, and struck Choate again. Choate then slipped and fell, striking his head on the side of the latrine. The deck was fairly wet. The men had always been friendly prior to this. SoMiers had slipped on the deck while wearing service boots. Choate 'exhibited more temper than Marsden."

Company Sergoant-Major Mackay and Sergeant Lockett gave corroborative evidence.

Owing to the non-appearance of tbe only other witness, SurgeonCaptain Gordon, from the South, the frrther hearing was adjourned until to-morrow.