BURNS

Posted by Cathy Gowdy on Sunday, January 22, 2012 at 04:27:23 :

Marin Journal
Thursday, June 28, 1934
Page 1

S. Q. Convict Dead From Poisoning

Edward Burns, San Quentin convict who dropped dead Saturday while eating a piece of candy, met his death from poisoning, a coroner’s jury found yesterday at an inquest held at the prison.

Coroner J. Ray Keaton called the inquest after word had been received from Dr. Ernest and Victors San Francisco pathologist (sic) that Burns’ stomach contained strychnine. Deputy Coroner Harry Williams conducted the hearing.

An investigation into the case is being hamde (sic) by District Attorney Henry Greer and his assistant, Harold J. Haley was present at the inquest.

Prison officials believe that the poison which caused Burns death was intended for another convict, H. B. Ritchie, negro prisoner, who was taken to San Quentin from Folsom prison for protection after he “squealed” on a fellow prisoner.