JERRY DONOVAN

CP Democrat March 13, 1909

The horse of Jerry Donovan came to his house Wednesday with the shaves and two front wheels of the buggy, and as Jerry did not show up at all by Thursday morning a party went out to look for him. He was found in the woods on the road leading to his home in the country dead. His body was taken to the residence of his father in law, Wm. McBride, and parish Coroner, Dr. R.C. Webb of Crowley was telegraphed for. Dr. Webb arrived late in the afternoon and the inquest was held with the following member on jury: Felix Dejean, Judge Wm. Claive, Will Richard and Elijah McBride. The finding was that Jerrys neck was accidentally broken in a run-away, causing death.

Jerry had for a long time been mail carrier from this place to Rayne, and during which capacity he made many friends. When the train, some months ago, began carrying the mail, Jerry retired to his farm. He was also associated with his brother Pat, in the livery business here. He leaves a wife and many friends who regret his loss.

It appears that Mr. Donavon had received his last check from the government in pay for carrying the mail, and after paying a few bills here in town, got in his buggy, stating that he was going to Rayne and there settle a few outstanding accounts. It is believed he went on to some place in Lafayette and there purchased a jug of whiskey which he drank freely of on his way homeward. Some one has said that they passed him on the road leading into the woods near his home and at that time was whipping his horse and making the horse run, and this was the last saw of him till found in the woods as above stated.