Matthews, Frederick 1895 April 11th Swindon
Verdict of “Felo de Se”
Considerable sensation has been caused in the town of Swindon by the determined and tragic suicide of a young man named Frederick Matthews, who was known to a large circle of acquaintance in the place. Matthews, who was about 24 years of age, was discovered lying dead on the floor of his room at 40, Havelock Terrace, New Swindon, with a discharged rifle by his side. He had attached a piece of tape to the trigger of the gun and had placed the muzzle in his mouth. The bullet completely shattered the top of his head, and the brains were scattered about the room. The body was found after church time on Sunday night. The unfortunate young man, who was employed at the railway works in the town, has served some time in the local Volunteer corps, and this explains the presence of the rifle.
An inquest was held on Monday by Mr Browne, the coroner. During the evidence it transpired that the deceased had arranged to be married on Saturday next, and no motive was advanced as a cause for his crime.
After hearing the evidence, the jury returned a verdict of “Felo de se.”
Wiltshire Coroner's Inquests 1801-1920 