INQUEST AT BLACKBALL

Hokitika Guardian, 29 January 1918, Page 1

INQUEST AT BLACKBALL

An inquest was hold at Blackball touching the death of the late William Downes, who met with an' accident in the Blackball Aline, in a place known as No. 17 heading, on the 17th inst., and who subsequently died at the Grey Hospital a s a-result of tlic accident. . Air. T. Hutchison, District Coroner, presided, Air. Jas Newton, Inspector of Coal Alines, appeared on behalf of the Blackball Aimers’ Union, and Air. Watson for the Blackball Coal Company. Constable Baird conducted the proceedings on behalf of the police. Evidence as given by Chris. Quibell (working mate with the deceased). Steve Tlartsliorne (cross mate), Jas. Sneddon and David Veitcli (deputies), from whom it was ascertained that the deceased went to work at fi a.m. on the 7th and at about 9 .a.m. a. fall of coal and muck came from the “top rib” and partly covered deceased. A good deal of evidence was taken on the question as to whether ladder and sounding bar were provided in accordance with the requirements, difference of opinions being given g as to whether these should be at the actual working place or near at band. The Coroner intimated that he would reserve his verdict until after he had further looked into the evidence regarding the .question whether there bad been any neglect.