THE JOHNSONVILLE MURDER.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLV, Issue 2534, 25 January 1923, Page 3

THE JOHNSONVILLE MURDER.

TUHI ON TRIAL.

Wellington, January 24.

The trial of tire Maori John Tulii, on the charge of murdering his employer, Herbert Henry Knght, at Johnsonville, on October 16, was opened at the Magistrate’s Court today.

Dr. Hector said an examination revealed a large wound on the left side of the head, and an opening in the skull five inches long by five inches broad. Great force would be required to cause such an injury. In the course of evidence at the afternoon proceedings of the trial, a former employee of Mr Knight recognised the coat that Tuhi was wearing in Court as previously belonging to deceased. Other articles of attire were also identified. Witness admittecT having had a dispute with Knght as to wages, but declared that they parted good friends. Knight had declared that he had no money, and could not possibly pay him. It was at his suggestion that Tuhi succeeded to his position on the farm. A neighbour related how he had questioned Tuhi after Knight’s disappearance. The native had replied: “Oh, Knight, he never come back.” On being pressed for further information, lie said that he knew someone who had seen Knight.go away on a big boat. Accused was quite unconcerned as to his employer’s absence. Witness cautioned him about remaving tools and building materials from the farm, and told him the police were watching him. Witness also suggested that there had been a white woman visitor, but this Tuhi strenuously denied. “Looking him straight in the face,” continued witness, “I said to Tuhi, ‘You know where he is?’ but he said he did not know.

Other witnesses gave evidence of identification of certain articles, also as to the habits of deceased. The ease will be continued to-morrow. Twenty-three witnesses, including a number of natives, have to be examined. Tuhi preserved a calm demeanour and appeared to take little real interest in the proceedings.