CHEMIST'S DEATH

Hawke's Bay Herald-Tribune, Volume 81, Issue 8, 2 October 1937, Page 3

CHEMIST'S DEATH

-Preas Assoeiation.)

Suggestion of Poisoriing Resented

(By Telegraph ■

CHRISTCHURCH, Last Night. ; . The words "Poisoning is suspec'ted," appearing in a Press Assoeiation rcport of the death of Alexander Robcrt McDowell, retired Christchurch chemist, were the subject of an emphatic protest at the inquest to-day. McDowell was found unconseious in Hagley Park on June 28 and was taken to the publia hospital, where he died. It was stated at the inquest that the suggestion of poisoning had caused great distress to relatives. Mr A. E. Kincaid, brother-in-law, addressing the coroper, Mr E. C. Levyey, S.M., said: "I wan't to mako au emphatic protest against such an article appearing in papers throughout New Zealand. McDowell '$ wife is my sister and the report has caused very great discress indeed to all membera of the family. He was well known throughout New Zealand, and it has caused quite a lo't of talk. ' ' Mr Kincaid asked wliether the coroner could order a correction of the report. "I have no standing in that matter," Mr Levvey said, "but. publicity for ypur statement will operate as a withdrawal." Aftcr heariug the cvidence of Dr. A. B. Pearsou, patbologist at the Christchurch Publie Hospital, Mr Levvey rcLurued a vcrdicfc that McDowell dicd from natuyai causes due to coma asso- ; ciated with cardio-reual disease and acceierated by exposure.