PANIC AT A FUNERAL.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXIV, Issue 1075, 27 July 1912, Page 4

PANIC AT A FUNERAL.

MOURNERS FALL INTO OPEN GRAVES.

One man was killed, five people were very seriously injured, and 20 slightly hurt at a funeral on Friday, May 17th, in Greenwood Cemetery, Brooklyn. The funeral was that of Mr Monoco, a rich manufacturer who was a high Mason, and the ceremony was attended by a large number of people.

A large ditch had been dug sufficient for five graves, and four of these were covered with light boards sprinkled with earth. It was not intended that the mourners should approach so near to the grave as to be in danger, but the press was so great that the chief mourners were forced upon the plot as the coffin was being lowered into the grave. Suddenly there was a crackling of timber and loud cries of distress, and forty people who had been pushed forward fell into the ditch. A panic ensued. The people struggled wildy to get out, and several fell on the coffin, which was smashed.

Those nearest the top scrambled out, but those at the bottom were very badly hurt, and in several cases arms and legs were broken. When the men were helped out of the grave it was found that one who was at the bottom had been killed, and five were so badly hurt that they were taken to hospital. The coffin was temporarily repaired, and the ceremony was concluded as quickly as possible. Among those who were injured were three relatives of the dead man and several of his intimate friends.

Thomas Rimmer has been ap pointed Foxton agent for “Red Oil,” the celebrated winter spray for fruit trees.*

C. M. Ross and Co., the Bon Marche, Palmerston North, advertise their annual winter clearance, to commence on Saturday, July 13th. and this firm advise us that their premises will be closed all day on Wednesday to complete the marking down of stock, and make complete arrangements for a crowd of eager buyers on Saturday morning. An inset is circulated with this issue.*

How often youths’ bright fancies are Dispelled by passing years; How often troubles come to man, Our joys, with sorrow’s tears ; But ’midst the changing scenes of life Of one thing we are sure; We’re freed from coughs and colds so rife, By Woods’ Great Peppermint Cure. 7