THE MAHIA MURDER.

Temuka Leader, Issue 1883, 25 April 1889, Page 3

THE MAHIA MURDER.

Gisbokni, April 28.

When the half-caste Makaore was arrested for the Mahia murder, the boy Beinhana made a confession that he accompanied Makaore to Gollan's house on Thursday evening, and remained at the gate, 300 yards from the house. Shortly afterwards he heard a shot, then some one cry out as if in pain. Wot long afterwards Makaore came out, and the two proceeded back to Kaianga. At the same time the boy observed the house on fire. The house was one of the out stations of Mr G. C. Ormond, some eight miles from Mahia township and three miles from the home station. The house was a cottage of two rooms. Gollan not being at work on Friday morning Mr Ormond send for hiin, when the house was found burnt down and traces of foul play were discovered. Then the remains were discovered, but the head was missing. Subsequently part of the charred skull was discovered. On Saturday morning the police arrived from Wairoa and arrested Makaore. Blood was found on his clothes. Mr Large, J.P., Acting Coroner, held an inquest, which was adjourned till Thursday, to enable Detective Grace to work up evidence. The Maori woman, Mihi, was at Gisborne in the morning, but she was sent to Makia; she stated that Gollan had always been good to her, and she was grieved at his death. Makaore frequently endeavored to get her to leave Gollan, but she detested the half-caste, he being a bad man. Makaore has borne a notorious character. Gollan was generally liked. The woman says she told Gollan of Makaore's overtures, _ consequently there was great bitterness and jealousy beween them. Mihi is a pure Maori, of plain appearance, and aged twenty-four. [Further particulars about this case will be found on our first page].