1913/130 Rex vs. Ing Soo – attempted murder
As part of the Chinese Historical Wrongs Legacy Initiative, the BC Archives has digitized a selection of documents related to criminal prosecutions against the Chinese community from 1866 to 1914, found in GR-0419. These are mainly records created as part of the preliminary hearing held before a judge in order to determine whether there was sufficient evidence to proceed to trial. There are often lengthy witness statements, and cross examinations by both prosecution and defense lawyers. The eventual verdict is sometimes recorded on the outside of the docket. They offer a fascinating glimpse into 19th and early 20th century criminal activity around the province, and ways in which the Chinese community was stereotyped. The records offered for transcription here are a small selection; for additional digitized material from GR-0419 click here.
*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum. Some materials may contain content that is racist, sexist or otherwise offensive. In addition, GR-0419 records deal with subjects such as assault, murder and abuse, which may upset some readers. The Royal BC Museum is only the custodian of archival materials; the content does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Royal BC Museum.
*All transcriptions are provided by volunteers, and the accuracy of the transcriptions is not guaranteed. Please be sure to verify the information by viewing the image record, or visiting the BC Archives in person.
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window I could remember it if I had. I did not see the window or screen broken.
I was in Weroms Hotel before I went in the restaurant. I will positively swear I did not throw the rock thro [sic] the window. I got away and stayed away until I was put in the lock up. I have been here about 5 years and never had a row with anyone.
I went over the bank to get out of the way of the gun. I was running away all the time he was shooting. I looked a around just before the second shot and the gun was pointing in my direction. I was between the Mountain House and the Bank I could not see how long it was between the first and second shot. Ing Soo was still standing near the restaurant.
Before any shot was fired I was going towards the bank or before any gun was seen I was no where near the bank when the first shot was fired. I could not tell the exact shot I was when the first shot was fired.
(Sgd) Harry Spencer.
(Sgd) R. L. T. Galbraith, J.P.
(Sgd) Arthur B. Fenwick, J.P.
This evidence taken in the presence and hearing of the accused.
BC Archives GR-0419 Box 175 File 1913/130 / BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. / Attorney General documents.