Military History

William was in training with the 30th (Training) Battalion, Royal Fusiliers who were billeted in Leamington Spa and in particular William was billeted at 14 Duke Street, Leamington Spa. He committed suicide there by taking Prussic acid (hydrogen cyanide) with a cup of tea. The following newspaper report of the subsequent inquest describes the events leading to his death.

Soldiers Suicide at Leamington - Allegations of Petty Tyranny Denied by N.C.O's

The circumstances surrounding the death of Private William Charles Norton billeted at Leamington were investigated at an inquest yesterday. Norton was found in bed, after taking prussic acid.

Private Harry George Cook said deceased was 45 years of age, and joined the army with him in October, 1914. Deceased had complained of treatment received from N.C.O.’s. He had said “If the N.C.O.’s were all as good as the officers it would be all right.” He said the N.C.O.’s were “making his life a hell on earth,” and he threatened to take his life.

Lieutenant Herbert Fay said deceased had, as his sergeant, and was an efficient man. He had seemed worried lately, and when questioned, complained of having been systematically bullied, and said he was getting desperate. As a witness was not in deceased’s company, he reported the complaints to the company’s officer.

In reply to the foreman of the jury, Lieutenant-Colonel Inglis said deceased had made complaint to him, and he had an appointment to see Norton on the morning on which he was found dead.

Company Quarter-master-sergeant King said there was no foundation for deceased’s complaints; he had been subjected to petty tyranny. He had occasion a few days ago to report Norton for disobedience to an order, and he was admonished by the officer.

Company Sergeant-major Harmer said on two occasions he had reported deceased for failing to obey orders.

Replying to a question by the Coroner as to whether there was justified with the action of the officers and N.C.O.’s in regard to Norton, Colonel Inglis said he was quite satisfied.

The jury returned a verdict of “Suicide whilst of unsound mind,” and exonerated the officers and N.C.O.’s from any blame in the matter.