Jim Kershner’s this day in history

From our archives, 100 years ago

The head gate operator at the Washington Water Power dam in Spokane was “astounded” when a wet, streaming apparition suddenly appeared on the platform.

It was Miss Lenette Havel, a hat-checker at the Silver Grill. She had jumped into the river from the Post Street Bridge. Despite the “handicap of a broken collarbone and a period of unconsciousness,” she was able to float to the head gate and climb up on the platform. She asked to be taken to a doctor before she collapsed.

Miss Havel refused to tell police why she jumped. Yet police said she had been walking with J.L. McGinnis, a saloonkeeper, and having a fraught conversation. He said this was the first time he had seen her in months, but she had written him repeatedly. He said she was infatuated with him, but her feelings were not reciprocated. 

“Talk to me,” she urged as they stood on the bridge.

“I have said all I could,” he answered. “Let’s go up town.”

He started walking, and when he turned around, Miss Havel had climbed up on the rail. He grabbed for her, but she plunged down and disappeared into the water. 

Her injuries were probably from striking the bridge pier. She was under observation at the hospital, and McGinnis was being held overnight for more questioning.