A SERIOUS EXPLOSION

Hokitika Guardian, 18 September 1920, Page 3

A SERIOUS EXPLOSION

I AUSTRALIAN * I?.Z. CABMS ASSOCIATION]

FURTHER PARTICULARS. NEW YORK, Sept. 16.

There is great confusion still surrounding the scene of the explosion, which is considered the worst disaster of its kind ever occuring on the Island of Manhattan. The property damaged alone will probably mount into millions while the total deaths is unknown. Several persons sitting in automobiles nearby the explosion were torn to bits and horses were riven into fragments. The military has been called out and are surrounding the explosion area withdrawn bayonets and, none are allowed to pass. Hundreds of thousands of persons occupying fhe skyscrapers in the explosion area crowded the street, absolutely blocking traffic, since the city at that section t's extremely narrow. All the-glass windows have been shattered and the buildings pockmarked as though hy shell-fire. Many of the injured are suffering from wounds from flying debris. Among the killed, which are now estimated to be thirty, are several women, While the exact cause of the explo- ‘ sion may never be determined, the best, theorists existing at present write that a load of T.N.T. must have accidentally exploded while near Morgan’s office. There had been excavation for a new building nearby, and explosives were being used. On the other hand it is suggested that a waggon load of T.N.T. was timed to explode as a big bomb while directly before Morgan’s office. The United States Sub-Treasury, directly opposite Morgan’s place, was badly damaged. Observers say the scene immediately after the explosion resembled a battlefield. A cloud of smoke and dust rose jn a high spiral. Debris was tossed about wildly, causing injury. Everywhere there was blood colouring the streets.

WALL STREET EXPLOSION. (Reoeived This Day at 8 a,m.) NEW YORK, Sept. 16.

The New York “Times” Washington correspondent telegraphs that Mr Palmer has ordered an enquiry into the New York explosion. A special agent has been despatched to begin investigations. It is declared if the explosion proves to he a bomb outrage i will completely vindicate Mr Palmer’s recent cfitnpnigii.

further particulars. 'Received this day at 9.20 a.m.) - -NEW YORK, Sept. 17. Investigators of the Wall Street disaster state the explosion carried with it iron .slugs weighing a pound or more. /These flew in every direction doing conisiderable damage. This discovery strengthens the theory that it was a bomb outrage. Thousands of dollars worth of securities were lost as the result of the explosion. Stockbrokers report that many messengers carrying securiheis dropped them, and ran as soon as the detonation occurred, while othei messengers disappeared in the contusion and have not yet returned. Owing to the growing conviction.that the explosion was caused by an infernal machine, the Federal authorities m other large cities have been instructed! to look out for similar occurrences. Strong guards have been placed around public buildings and homes of wellknown financiers and commercial men. The number of injured discovered now totals two hundred.. A large array ot workers under countless searching lights Jast night began to clear up tbe debris Plls l'epajr the damage in explosion area and 'within twelve hours after the detonation, the streets began to assume a more normal appearance. All business houses and the stock exchange announced business will resume this morning as usual