CHARGE OF MANSLAUGHTER.

Taihape Daily Times, Issue 160, 17 August 1916, Page 5

CHARGE OF MANSLAUGHTER.

RAILWAY CROSSING FATALITY

CAR DRIVER NOT GUILTY. PALMERSTON N. August 1(5, At the Supreme Court, before the Chief Justice. Thomas Stanley Madge appeared on a charge of the manslaughter of Mr and Mrs Gowdy, who were killed as the result of an accident at the Taonui railway crossing, in which a train and a motor-car driven by Madge came into collision, and two of the passengers in the car met their deaths.

J. D. Evans, one of the passengers, said he considered Madge a most careful driver. If he had not been so careful the accident might not have happened. If he had been going faster lie could have got over the line before the engine. He did not hear the whistle. The driver and fireman of the express which came into collision with the car gave evidence as to blowing the whistle and pulling - up the train. For the defencce it was contended that Madge had taken every precaution. He had not heard the whistle, and had looker! back when three chains away from the crossing. Further evidence was given as to Madge's good character and carfulness as a car driver.

His Honour said the jury had to find whether the accused had taken reasonable precaution and care. There was no suggestion that the accused had acted, wilfully. The jury returned a verdict of not guilty, and the accused was discharged.