RIVER TRAGEDY

Wairarapa Times-Age, 26 December 1939, Page 4

RIVER TRAGEDY

YOUTH DROWNED. FATALITY AT PUKIO. ("Times-Age” Special.) Albert Edwin Collins, aged 19, employed by J. Nunn, farmer, of Pukio, Featherston, was drowned in the Ruamahanga River nearby at midday on Sunday while swimming. Accompanied by Robert W. Palmer, Collins entered the water with his companion and had swum about half way across the river when he appeared to get into difficulties. He called out several times and then disappeared. Palmer went to his assistance, but Collins sank before he could reach him, and did not come to the surface again. There were no other bathers about at the time. The Featherston police were communicated with, and Constables McLeod and McNamara arrived and commenced dragging operations. A large party of men from Pukio and Pihautea assisted. The body was recovered two hours later and conveyed to Featherston. An inquest was held this morning, Mr T. Lang, Coroner, presiding. Evidence was given by Mr J. J. Hercock. Child Welfare Officer. who formally identified the body, W. R. Palmer, and Constable McLeod. After hearing the evidence a verdict of accidental drowning was returned by the Coroner. Constable McLeod, of the Featherston Police Station, stated this morning that he wished to thank the residents of Pukio and Pihautea for their valuable services, especially Mr E. Palmer for his assistance with the dragging operations, as the work was shortened owing to his knowledge of the river.