LANSDOWNE TRAGEDY

Wairarapa Times-Age, 8 September 1938, Page 6

LANSDOWNE TRAGEDY

DEATH OF MR EDWARD WELCH DUE TO SYNCOPE FOLLOWING FALL IN WATER A verdict of death from syncope following on sudden immersion in cold water wa£ returned by the District Coroner, Mr E G. Eton, at the resumed inquest yesterday on the death of Mr Edward Welch, of Lansdowne, whose body was found in a flax swamp on the property of Mr H. Nee, Opaki Road, just beyond the borough boundary, on August 25. Mr Welch had been reported missing the previous day, and his body was found by Mr Ken Welch. Evidence of identification as to the finding of the body by Mr Welch had already been taken. Dr Archer Hosking deposed as to an examination of the body, on which a post mortem was held. “He died from syncope following on sudden immersion in cold water,” said Dr Hosking. “He was a man of sedentary habits and his heart was not strong. Wading through the swamp, as I am informed he did. would upset his cardiac balance and render him more liable to the syncope that occurred.” Dr Hosking added that death occurred suddenly, and there had not been time for any water to be drawn into the lungs. Mrs M. E. Andrew, of Opaki Road, testified to having seen Mr Welch passing her house on August 24, between 2.20 and 2.40 p.m., walking in a northerly direction. She did not know then | that he had been reported missing earlier that day. Constable F. L. Diggle gave evidence as to the finding of the body, and regarding the pathologist’s report. The latter stated that there were no signs of poisoning in the specimens forwarded for examination. The Coroner returned a verdict of death in accordance with the medical evidence. “The Court expresses its sympathy with the relatives.” said Mr Eton, “in the loss of a citizen well known for many years and highly respected and regrets very much that he came by an untimely death in the manner he did.” Mr Eton added that there was no evidence of any intention to commit suicide by poisoning. Although arsenate of lead was found in Mr Welch’s pocket the fact that he was a gardener no doubt explained its presence. Mr Eton expressed appreciation of the good work done by scouts and the boys of the Sedgley and the Methodist Homes, and others in the search for the missing man.