|
Manchester Times
21 July 1849
Inquest
On Wednesday last, an inquest was held on the body of Crowther Smith, at the Canal Tavern, Burnley. From the evidence given it appears Crowther Smith and his sweetheart were returning from the fair, about one o'clock on the morning of Wednesday the 11th inst. and having got as far as Top-street, in Lane Bridge, they stopped, in company of some other persons. Hearing a noise in the street, Smith, with others, went to see what was the matter, and whilst in the act of proceeding up the street they were met by Patrick Swift, who, with a piece of iron some fourteen inches in length, somewhat in the shape of a file, or rather an old pike head, struck the deceased, Smith, on the forehead. It appeared in the evidence, that when Swift left his house, with the weapon in his hand, his wife ran after him, crying out, "Murder! murder!" After an inquiry of several hours, the jury returned a verdict of "Wilful murder" against Patrick Swift, whose present abode is unknown, but the police are in search of him. - It appears that when Smith was struck, Dr. Smirthwaite attended him, and told the police that he was not dangerously wounded. This information prevented the police from then taking Swift into custody. Smith was seen in the street twice after being struck, but the wound became worse, and on Saturday or Sunday last death ensued.
_________________
Mel
Searching for lost relatives? Win the Lottery!
|
Login
Register
FAQ
Search
