FARMER RUNS AMOK.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIX, Issue 3751, 7 February 1928, Page 2

FARMER RUNS AMOK.

BURNS BUILDINGS, STACKS,

AND MOTOR-CAR. DROWNS CHILD AND INJURES HIMSELF. Christchurch, February 6.

A sensational affair occurred at Kirwee, 30 miles from Christchurch, to-night, when John Duncan, a farmer, well known in the district, ran amok. On his return from the city to his home, he discharged his employees, burned his house and outbuildings, seven stacks of oaten hay, and five of oat sheaves, and his motor-car. After this he disappeared taking his two years old son with him. He was found again at 8.30 near the remains of his farm buildings with a deep gash in his arm, and was immediately arrested and brought to Christchurch

The child was-found drowned in a water race some distance from the buildings at about 9 o’clock. There were no marks of violence on the body. Duncan was admitted to the hospital to-night. Duncan came to Christchurch today to attend the Magistrate’s Court, where, on the application of his wife, who left him three months ago, separation, maintenance, and guardianship orders were made a'gninst him, maintenance being fixed at £3 weekly for the wife and two .children. Returning to the farm, which was four miles from Kirwee Duncan said, “I lost my case today. I’m getting out of this tonight.” He then paid off his housekeeper, who left at once, and also three or four men employed harvesting. Shortly afterwards smoke was seen issuing from the farm buildings. Nothing was saved. The damage was estimated to be at least £2OOO. It is understood that -at present no charge is being preferred against Duncan.