CHRISTCHURCH TRAMWAY ACCIDENT

Dominion, Volume 12, Issue 199, 17 May 1919, Page 8

CHRISTCHURCH TRAMWAY ACCIDENT

CONDITION OP THE INJURED.

Br Telegraph-Press Association

Christchurch, May IG. In connection with tho tramway accident two inquiries may bo held, ono by tho Public Works Department and tho other by the Tramway Board. Both will be' closed to the Press. A large number of claims for compensation are expected. Tho Tramway Board has no fund to meet such claims, and if any alO paid payment will come out of tho general account. Of tho injured, Mrs. Matthews s baby girl is in a very critical condition, and Mrs. Neodam's baby ®rl is also a serious case. Samuel Brunton, aged 17, who is suffering from a fractured skull, ifi very low. ■ Tho ■ others are progressing satisfactorily.

DEPARTMENTAL INQUIRY. Christchurch, May IG. Tin; evidence submitted at the departmental inquiry into tlie tramway accident went to sboiv that while the § loading was heavy on the car in question it was nothing beyond what had been carried on the samo class of car in the past. The cause of the trailer leaving the rails after the car and the first trailer had passed over the points is still inexplicable, in view of the fact that the tram was running on what is known as the "straight." A careful examination has shown the points at tha Hcalhcoto loop to be in first-class condition. The cars and their equipment also have been proved to have been all right.