THE GISBORNE TRAGEDY.

Waikato Times, Volume 102, Issue 17076, 13 April 1927, Page 8

THE GISBORNE TRAGEDY.

INQUEST ON THE VICTIMS. GISBORNE Wednesday. An inquest was opened by Mr Lewy, Coroner, into the deaths Mrs Queenie Eleanor Pettit and George Edward Nowell, the victim and perpetrator, of the recent shooting in Ilirini Street. Medical evidence was first taken as to the nature of the injuries. ■ James Oman stated that he and Miss Bennett had talked over their marriage for four days before the tragedy, but no decision as to date was made until the night before. Deceased was friendly with Nowell, hut had not advised him of the projected marriage. His wife had formerly been friendly with Nowell. It had been decided to let no one know of the wedding, with the exception of the parents of both parties. -Witness gave details of the shooting, as already published, affirming that only one slipt "'was fired through the window, though he heard three shots fired, and some time later a fourth shot. Noelina Victoria Oman, formerly Miss Bennett, stated that she had known Nowell for 12 months, and had spent a holiday on his station. Mrs Nowell six months ago had asked witness to go to England with her, but this did not eventuate. The friendship between Nowell and witness ripened after Mrs Nowell left six months ago, Nowell becoming infatuated with her, hut this was not reciprocated. Many times she had spoken of the impossibility of the position. She became engaged to Oman at Christmas. She had met Nowell three weeks prior to the •tragedy, and intimated that she did not wish to have anything to do with him.. He was angry and threatened to drag her out 'ol' the church if she .married anyone else. For months he had threatened to commit suicide if she would not he friendly with him. He had an ungovernable temper, lie had no grievance against Mrs Pettit.