THE DEADLY PEA-RIFLE.

Gisborne Times, Volume XLV, Issue 3976, 8 July 1915, Page 7

THE DEADLY PEA-RIFLE.

SMODEL TO THE RECENT SHOOTING ACCIDENT AT TARUHEEU. THREE LADS BEFORE THE COURT. A sequel to tho regrettable shooting accident which occurred at Taniheru "about a fortnight ago, when Air Hyde was accidentally shot in the breast while riding along the road beyond Alossrs Nelson Bros, freezing works, was heard in the Magistrate's Court yesterday morning. Harry Allan, aged 16. and Roy Grant, aged 18, were charged with using firearms in a . public place to the danger of passers by. Sonior-Sergt. llutton, who represented the police, stated that as Air Hyde was passing along the road near the Taniheru freezing works, he heard the sound of firearms, and itfter the second shot- found he had been hit in the breast, In consequence he had had to go to the Hospital. The bullet had not been extracted yet, and probably he would have to undergo art operation. Mr W.‘ A. Barton, S.AL, said that it was verv necessary that boys should learn to shoot, but tliev should do so under the direction of some responsible person. Addressing tile lads, the Magistrate said that they might, by their carelessness, have been responsible for the death of the man they shot. Allen was fined 5s and costs 7s. and Grant, whom His Honor said was old enough to know better, was fined £1 and costs 7s. Henry Hansen,’ a lad of 15f years, was also charged that he did use a firearm in a public place. The lad’s father explained that his boy was in company with the other two lads, and they were taking- shot about. His Worship told accused that he did not want to discourage, boys learning to shoot, rather the other way about; but as by had already pointed out boys must learn to use firearms under the direction of responsible persons. Accused might have been responsible for the death of the mail who was shot. His Worship said he would not inflict a penalty in tins case, and discharged the accused. In answer to Senior-Sergt. Hutton, His Worship said he could' not- make an order for the return of the rifle, winch belonged to Allen, who wa.under 10 years of age, but perhaps the bov’s father might agree to take Custody of the weapon. Ho could not make an order for its return to the boy.