A MISSING SOLDIER.

Taranaki Daily News, 23 May 1919, Page 5

A MISSING SOLDIER.

SOME POINTS IN THE INQUIRY. Jy Telegraph.—Press Association. Wellington, La9t Night. At the inquiry relating to the disappearance of Rifleman John Russell from the ferry steamer Mararoa on the night October 24-2' i last, John Hutchinson, the only relative of the missing soldier fti New Zealand, was granted the privilege of addressing the court. Hutchinson said in his opinion some points for decision had been proved. He asked the court to pay special attention to Scrgeant-Major McLeod's evidence, stating that reporting to him was not reporting to the "military authorities"; also the evidence of witnesses that Russell had suicidal intentions The evidence all through testified in one direction —that Russell was not keen on going to Hanmer. Hutchinson also contended that the statements made in court went to show that the escort provided for Russell was not adequate; also that there was neglect on the part of the medical authorities in not Saving Russell examined as to his mental condition prior to leaving Wellington. Hutchinson also said that he considered that the escort had not been sufficiently careful of Russell. Hutohinson thanked the court for the departure from the usual procedure in allowing him to question witnesses ', and address the court.