THE GISBORNE TRAGEDY

Ashburton Guardian, Volume VII, Issue 2009, 10 December 1888, Page 3

THE GISBORNE TRAGEDY

(PER TRKB3 ASSOCIATION ) Gisboene, December 9. A message from Tologa Bay last night states that on arrival of the Coroner on Friday a jury was empanelled, and a survey made of the store In which the recent murder was oommltted. The inquest was then adjourned until next morning. The scene of the murder presented a terrible aspect. Splashes of blood were found all over the store and dwelling. Apparently the Instruments used were an Iron bar and two new axes. The cash box had been emptied and the contents taken. The evidence up to the time of the message leaving was of a revolting nature, and fears are entertained that the efforts of tbe police will be unsnooeeef al for a time. There is great exoltement on the coast, and a feeling of Inßecurlty amongst the paople. Several Maoris have been apprehended, but there Is little evidence to conneot them with the orlme; ( The son of the vlotlms died shortly after six last evening. Auckland, December 10. Arrived— Maitai from East Coast ports On the 7th, when the Maitai was at Toparoa, Sir Qeo Whitmore, who was residing there, had a blood stained knifo handed him with a Maori name carved upon it. Thiß was found near the scene of the triple murder at Waiparoa It ia believed to be an important clue to the murderer, and will lead to the liberation of the six natives now m custody on suspicion. Gisbobne, December 10. At the Inqaeat on Saturday on the bodies of Mr and Mrs Pook, the jary returned a verdiot of " Wilful matder" agslnbt a person or persona unknown There are now six natives under arrest on suspicion, but against one only do cltoatnstances appear black, This native is named Hair la te Perl. Constable Gerard discovered that a boot of Peri's exactly corresponds with the footprints about the bouse and store. A knife also discovered ia believed to belong to the prisoner. The police are of opinion that If a large reward and and free pardon were offered it might bring to light an accomplice who did not take an active part In the murder but who knows all tbe details.' It is ntated by the relatives of Pook that there must have been £200, mostly m cash, m the store. It Is expeoted that the men arrested will be tried about Wednesday.