A DEPLORABLE AFFAIR.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXV, Issue 1079, 25 March 1913, Page 3

A DEPLORABLE AFFAIR.

Auckland, March 22

A coroner’s inquest concerning the death of George Henry Hill was held to-day. Deceased’s widow stated that her husband was about fifty years of age, and the family consisted of two young boys. James Evans had boarded with them off and on, Evans accosted her in the street and used obscene language. She informed her husband, and he accompanied her and her two children to a friend’s residence. Evans chased them, and again insulted witness and wanted to fight her husband. She gave her husband £2, which he had deposited with her for safe-keep-ing, and early next morning she gave him £5 which he bad given her to send to Sydney on his behalt; also his watch, chain and a ring. She then told Evans he could not remain as a boarder. Evans left, but returned later, and used offensive language. Witness left the house to get police assistance, and on returning she found her husband and Evans in the backyard, che former lying across a chopping block. She saw Evans kick him. Her husband was black in the face, and could not stand. Evans asked if she wanted her face smashed, too, and struck her on the face. A constable arriving she gave Evans in custody, and her husband was removed to hospital. Evans appeared sober enough to know what he was doing. ■ In a statement to the police, Evans said he and Hill were both injured by falling over some wood iu the yard.

The jury found that Hill's death was caused by a blow from James Evans.

The latter, who, was already in custody, was removed to the gaol.