SUICIDE AT CHRISTCHURCH.

Taranaki Daily News, 1 November 1917, Page 5

SUICIDE AT CHRISTCHURCH.

BY J!EW PLYMOUTH RESIDENT. By Telegraph.—Press Association. Christcliurch, Oct. 31. Alfred Richard Lennon, aged 56, accountant for the firm of B6rth\vick and Sons, meat exporters, was found dead in the ofliee this morning, as the result of a revolver shot in the temple. Christehurcli, Later. At the inquest on Alfred Richard Lennon, who was found shot this morning. Mr. C. 8. Harper, manager of Thomas Borthwiclc and Sons, said that Lennon was employed as accountant at the Wait,ara Freezing Works. He came to Christehurcli three weeks ago for the purpose of having his hooks audited, as was done every year. His health had worried him, and he took a despondent view of everything, but had never mentioned suicide. During the last week lie had been reprimanded regarding his work, but he seemed to get over it. and yesterday he was normal. "It might be inferred," said Mr. Harper, "that beIng. down on his animal audit, there was some irregularity in his books. There is not. We have no reason to believe thai! there arc any irregularities in hi# accounts. The only complaint was that his work was not done promptly. We never questioned his honesty, anil there is no reason to do 'so after'reading the letters left by Lennon, which are not in any way a confession."

Deceased was GO years of age. and his wife resides at New Plymouth. The coroner returned a verdict that Lennon shot himself while temporarily of unsound mind.

(The late Mr. Lennon had been a resident of New Plymouth for many years, and was held in high esteem. ' He led a quiet life. His tragic end will eome as a blow to those who knew him. Deep sympathy will be felt for his wife and family.)