BATHING FATALITIES.

Waikato Argus, Volume VI, Issue 378, 5 January 1899, Page 2

BATHING FATALITIES.

A YOUNG man named Traeey Hall, who was in the employment of Messrs Sargood, Son and Ewen, accompanied by his brother and nephew, went for a row on Lake Takapuna on Tuesday morning. When opposite the road leading from the Lake to the beach, and about 70 yards from the shore, they determined to have a bathe. Mr Queree dived off the stern of the boat, and when he came up he saw deceased jump In. Mr Hall's brother and nephew remained in charge, of the boat. Mr Hall was immediately in difficulties, and called to his brother to " bring the boat !" " hurry up! " and then commenced to sink. Mr Queree swam to his assistance, and managed to get hold of his arm, but, finding that he was being dragged down, was compelled to let go to save himself. Deceased then sank and was seen no more. Au inquest was held on Tuesday at Onehunga by Mr T. Hutchison, S.M., on the body of a boy named Chailes Mawkes, who was drowned in lite Manakau Harbour on Monday. L. E. Austin said he was bathing with deceased, who could not swim. Witness left the water and was leaving the spot when he wss told that deceased had got beyond his depth. He returned with his brother and attempted his rescue. They were unable to accomplish it, as he clung so tightly to them. Mr James Pascoe deposed that he heard of the situation and jumped ill and found the deceased floating with the tide. He brought the body ashore, but all efforts to restore animation failed. The jury returned :i verdict that deceased was accidentally drowned, and commended the Austin Brothers and Mr Pascoe for their gallant efforts to save his life. The body of the little boy Lounds, who was drowned at Hamilton on Sunday, has not yet been recovered.