About 11:30 today Joseph LaPorte was killed in the G.N. yards, near the passenger depot. Mr. LaPorte had stepped down to the station to mail a letter on an east bonnd {sp} train and was crossing the main line track at the time of the accident. Passenger train No. 3 west bound was considerably late and was just pulling into the station, the pilot of No. 3's engine caught him and drew him under the wheels, killing him instantly. The head of the unfortunate man was nearly severed from the body and he was otherwise frightfully mangled.

Mr. LaPorte was a prominent business man of Minot, and had held several good positions in the government service. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity and was held in high esteem by all who knew him. He was a kind father and loving husband. It is understood from reliable authority that Mr. LaPorte carried an insurance policy of $2,000 in the New York Life.

Acting Coroner Judge Murry impalled a jury and held an inquest over the remains this afternoon but up to going to press no verdict had been rendered.

Funeral services will be held Friday morning at 9:30 from the Catholic church under the auspices of that denomination.

Ward County Independent, 3/28/1903