Murderous Assault: Martin Westhoff

On a Friday, I share something that I have found whilst looking for records, that is interesting, useful, mysterious, fun, macabre, or adds information to our family tree.

Taken from the Daily News (London, Greater London, England),  24 Dec1849, page 7

Transcription
MURDEROUS ASSAULT - Martin Westhoff, a German sugar baker, 62, St. George's-in-the-East, was charged with assaulting Henrich Schwarman, and inflicting a wound whereby his life is at present in danger.

It appeared that the prisoner and the wounded man had agreed to fight German fashion - that is, without any regard to fair play. Schwarman was thrown violently, and, whilst down, the prisoner knocked his head several times with great force against the pavement, thereby inflicting the injury which placed his life in such jeopardy.

The case was remanded for further evidence, as well as to abide the issue as regards the injured man.

I do know of a Martin Westhoff, but he was younger than the Martin Westhoff mentioned in this article (he would have been 22 when this assault took place). He may be related, but so far, I have not found any direct links to our family.