MINE DISASTER

Hokitika Guardian, 16 February 1933, Page 6

MINE DISASTER

FURTHER. FACTS FROM HIKURANGI. •

(Per Press Association — Copyright.)

WH ANG A R ET, February 16

In connection with the triple tragedy at Hikurangi, it is now revealed that Robert, the eldest and only surviving ,011, strolled over to- the mine and might easily have the sjvme horrible fate. He. trio, was about to descend to the rescue when a premonition that he would meet death if he did so caused him to hesitate. On looking down the shaft he saw h'iisi three- 'brothers motio-nWW wliicli told him that the worst had happened.

The air shaft, which was sunk two vears ago. was inspected last Monday, and declared safe from fumes."

Experienced miners attribute the accumulation oi gases in such a short period to the change j u atmospheric conditions.

William Reid, one of the several miners who rushed to the scene, disregarded the risk and commenced the descent in a gallant attempt lit'rescue, hut almost immedia-tly shouted “I’m ’going,” and was promptly hauled to the surface in an unconscious state, from which he was a long time recovering, . /fbo Ackers family arrived at Hikur'mm, from Leigh (Lancashire),.in 1924. and had followed mining pursuits ever

since. '.A. formal inquest was- held this morning and was adjourned after identification of the remains.