Edward LANIGAN

Constable Edward Lanigan was transferred to a small settlement in North Queensland called Montalbion, in the Herberton district. Lanigan became friends with Constable McLoughlin from the nearby station of Watsonville. On 6 September 1894, McLaughlin came to Montalbion to arrest an Aboriginal man called Jacky Norman, a persistent offender who was wanted for housebreaking and stealing in Watsonville.

The two officers went to arrest Norman but could not locate him. They then received information that he was at Montalbion Creek. McLaughlin rode alone to arrest Norman and Lanigan was to follow. When Norman saw the Constable he ran, causing McLaughlin to give chase on his horse. Norman spooked McLaughlin's horse as it got close and McLaughlin drew his revolver. Lanigan arrived and McLaughlin told him to remain on his horse until he caught hold of Norman. The two men fought and during the desperate struggle Norman got hold of McLaughlin's revolver. Norman aimed the gun at McLaughlin but since the Constable was holding his hands the shot was difficult.

Lanigan, still mounted, came to his friend's rescue by pointing his revolver at Norman and threatening him. Unfortunately, Norman got a shot away which hit Lanigan in the chest and spooked his horse that promptly tossed the officer onto the ground. Lanigan died some minutes later. The fight for the gun went on and when finally McLaughlin wrenched it free of Norman's grip, Norman ran away. The search for Norman continued on the 7th and he was sighted and caught after a short chase on the 8th. Norman came to trial on 17 September 1894 and was sentenced to life imprisonment.