FATAL FIRE.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXII, Issue 1779, 9 June 1906, Page 3

FATAL FIRE.

A PBIEBT BUBNED TO DEATH,

(Pas Pies* Association.) Dunedin, yesterday. McCann's Hotel at Tapanui was burned to the ground at six this morning. When the fire was discovered a light wind that wss blowing beoslmod down. It was fearod that one of the lodgers. Father MoGratb, bas been burned to death, as be cannot be found. A small shop adjoining, owned by Maakenzie, drossmaktr, was also destroyed, but the stock was savod. MoCann is a heavy losor, as his insurances are light. Later.—The body of Father McGrath has boon recovered. Ho was apparently burned in bis bed.

FURTHER PARTICULARS. '(For Press Association.)' Dunedin, last night. In connection with the fatal fire at Tapanni, it appears that Father McGrath was in the habit of reading in bed, and it la supposed that this was the cause of the origin of the fire. The house and effects wore insured in the Royal office for £SOO. The remains of Father MoGrath were almost beyond recognition. His speotaoles and £4O in gold wore found in the room. The deceased priest came to the ooloDy 20 years ago, and has had charge of a number of parishes in Otago and South* land.