A TIMARU SENSATION.

Press, Volume LX, Issue 18238, 24 November 1924, Page 8

A TIMARU SENSATION.

TRAGIC DEATH OP MR H. S. RUSSELL. (SPXCIiX. 10 "THB PRESS.") TIMARU, November 23. Expressions oi' regret were general in Timaru this morning when it became known that Mr Herbert S. Russell, a well-known and esteemed citizen, and sportsman, had been found dead at his residence on the previous evening.

The Timaru police were notified by telephone by Grant Russell, a son of the deceased, at 8.20 last night, and on arrival found Mr Russell's body in the -bath, with tlie throat cut. A razor was found in the bath.

It is understood that Mr Russell had been suffering from insomnia for some time, and had been under treatment by a medical mau, who, if is said, had been with him just before eight o'clock last evening. There was nothing then to indicate that Mr Russell intended taking his own life. .

An inquest was held by the District Coroner (Mr E. D. Mosley, S.M.) this morning. Formal evidence of identification. Was, taken, and the inquest was then jadjourned. Mr Russell leaves, a widow and four children.

Our Timaru representative telegraphed as follows on Saturday night: —"To,-day Mr H. S. Russell, who has been for the past 18 years secretary to the South Canterbury Hospital Board, formally tendered his resignation of the position. "In informing tho chairman of the Board (the Rev. T. Wilson Potts) t)f his decision, Mr Russell stated that ho found himself out of sympathy with tho Board as a body, and he therefore felt unable in his capacity as its chief executive officer to continue carrying out the policy of the Board. _ Mr J. Leggott is to act as interim secretary until steps arc taken to fill the vacancy caused by Mr Russell's resignation."