As a coincidence, we mention the fact that one year ago this morning, George VanMater was knocked down and killed by the cars while talking to Wm. Thornburg. This morning Mr. Thornburg was killed in the same manner.
| February 16 1879 |
| Daily Muncie News |
Another Victim of the Merciless Car Wheel
William Thornburg, of This City
Killed at Lafayette
This morning about two o’clock, as Conductor William Thornburg of this city, was switching cars in the L. M. & B. Yards at Lafayette, he was, in some manner, thrown under the cars and instantly killed, about thirty cars passing over his body, and it is reported mutilating it beyond recognition. The cause of the accident will probably remain a mystery, as Mr. Thornburg was alone when his mangled and bleeding body was found after having been run over by the entire train. The dispatch announcing the above facts was received here at five o’clock this morning, and the sad intelligence was imparted to the family of the fortunate man sbout nine o’clock. His remains will be brought home on the No 2 this evening. The deceased was an old railroader, having been engaged in that business nearly twenty years. He leaves a wife and four children, dependent on the mercies of the world. |
| February 17 1879 |
| Daily Muncie News |
| The remains of W. S. Thornburg was brought home on No. 2 last night and was interred to-day. Cabooses have been draped in mourning. |
| February 17 1879 |
| Daily Muncie News |
| The funeral of Mr. Wm. S. Thornburg, whose painfull death was mentioned in Saturday’s issue of the News, took place to-day at 10 o’clock, at his late residence on East Charles street, Rev. Jacob Heath officiating. A large number of friends were present to pay their last tribute to one who was the friend to all who knew him, both yound ang old. His remains were taken to Monroe township and depositied in the graveyard near McCowan, where many of his relatives are buried. |
| February 19 1879 |
| Daily Muncie News |
| The L., M. & B. Railroad employees are opening their hearts and pocket-books, and contributing liberally in aid of Mrs. Tornbirg, whose husband met so untimely a death at Lafayette a few days since. |
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