SAD DROWNING FATALITY

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXIV, Issue 1007, 15 February 1912, Page 3

SAD DROWNING FATALITY

TWO BIVES BOST

Hokitika, February iq

A sad drowning fatality occurred in the Big Wanganui river yesterday evening. It appears that Rev. Bocke, vicar of Ross, was proceeding to Harihari for the purpose of attending the Anglican picnic on the following day. He was accompanied by his sister, Miss Bocke.

Approaching the Big Wanganui ford they were met by Ferryman Hende, who offered to take the trap over the river, the passengers to walk over a partiallyconstructed bridge, Mr Eocke declined the offer, thinking the river crossing safe, as he had previously crossed the ford twice. The river ford was swift and deep, and when half-way across the horse stopped, the wheels evidently being blocked by a large boulder. In an effort to turn the trap, either to avoid the stones or return, the vehicle capsized. In a moment horse, trap and occupants were swept down stream, the trap being rolled over and over. The suddenness of the accident and the sweep of the current prevented any succour being rendered. By the time the watchers reached the scene the horse had been washed ashore, also portions of the trap, but there was no sign of the occupants. When the accident happened the bodies could be seen momentarily in the turbulent waters, but up to the time of wiring they had not been recovered. Rev. Mr Eocke and his sister were only recent arrivals from Cornwall, England, Mr Eocke having come to the Dominion for a change of climate. Both were highly esteemed in the southern district, and needless to say the accident cast a gloom over the district where the victims were so well and favourably known.