"A BIG FIGHT."

Taranaki Daily News, 20 May 1920, Page 4

"A BIG FIGHT."

THE WANGANUI SENSATION. CONDITION OP WOUNDED MAN IMPROVING So far no new developments coneeran Saturday's shooting sensation at Vvanganli have occurred, Cresswell, the wounded man, shows satisfactory progress, and it is believed that he now has a good chance of recovery. The police are very reticent, and refuse to give any particular*,' bnt it is stated that the two men concerned had a big fight, and the police were telephoned for, also that Mackav was in trouble (says the Wellington Times), That message accounted for Constable Wilson being so early on the scene. The cause of the supposed quarrel is still hidden in mystery. Mr. and Mrs. Cressw»ll, parents of the wounded man, left Christchuroh oh Saturdav night, and arrived at Wanganui on Monday. About 15 years ago Mr, Mackay wag one of the. masters at King's College, a position he held for two or three years. Ho left teaching to take up the law, and later leaving Auckland practised at Stratford prior to going to Wanganui. When he was in Auckland, yachting was one o£. his favorite pastimes. Subsequent to the affair Mr. Mackay was completely broken up, and appeared to realise his position. What led up to the offence remains a mystery to far as the public is concerned, but it is well known that Mr. Mackay's health has been very seriously impaired as the result of an accident he met with last year, and lately he lias been a jwub of nerves. He recently had a serious disagreement with the heads of the Returned Soldiers' Association over the Prince's visit, and he was subjected to much hostile criticism from that quarter. A wave of sympathy for the unfortunate man has swept over the town, and the correct Story of the sad affair is now bejng awaited wfth great interest. The condition of the wounded man is reported to be improved, though lie is not yet out of danger. The bullet, which is believed to be embedded in tha lung, has not been located, and an operation will probably he neoessaYy