In a tragic incident, Private Thomas Ells, a member of the Army Hospital Corps serving as a clerk and compounder at the New Barracks in Limerick, was discovered in his bed this morning in a critical condition. Despite immediate efforts to save him, he succumbed shortly after due to the effects of an overdose of laudanum.

Private Ells, a native of London, had dedicated over ten years of his life to military service. At the time of his passing, he was 32 years old and unmarried. A nearly empty four-ounce bottle of laudanum was found by his bedside, providing clear evidence of the cause of his tragic demise.

The circumstances surrounding Private Ells’ death strongly suggest that it was an intentional act. The local authorities are likely to conduct an investigation to gain a deeper understanding of the events leading up to this unfortunate incident.

The news of Private Ells’ untimely death has undoubtedly left his comrades and loved ones in shock and grief. The military community, as well as the wider community of Limerick, will mourn the loss of a dedicated soldier whose life ended in such a heartbreaking manner.

Dublin Evening Telegraph – Tuesday 23 August 1904