Peter Mortensen Died 1920

MORTENSEN, SWANSON

Posted By: Connie Swearingen -Volunteer (email)
Date: 11/30/2018 at 09:08:18

Sioux City Journal
6 March 1920

Delirious, Dies In Creek
Sioux City Man Perishes While Insane
Flees In Night From Home
Body of Peter Mortensen, of 3618 Jackson, Is Found Two Hours Later in Perry Creek – Standing Erect in the Water

While temporarily insane, Peter Mortensen, 33 years old, 3618 Jackson Street, a shoemaker, early yesterday morning rushed from his home clad only in a night shirt, ran several blocks to Perry Creek, and after jumping into the stream froze to death. He was found by the police two hours later.

Mortensen only recently had recovered from an attack of influenza and was under a considerable nervous strain, according to Coroner William F. Dickinson, who investigated the death. While the member of his family were in another room they heard Mortensen go out the front door. This occurred at 3 a.m.

It was Mortensen’s second attempt to leave the house. The first time he went out the door he was followed and caught by Mrs. Mortensen’s brother, Nels Swanson. The second time he left he succeeded in leaving the home unnoticed for several seconds. By this time, he was able to get a good distance from the home.

It is thought that he ran west in Thirty-sixth Street until he reached Perry Creek Road.

Police were notified and a search for him was begun. His body was found standing erect in the water with his head and shoulders above the surface. Death was due to exposure and freezing.

Mortensen conducted a shoe shop at 612 Fifth Street. He is survived by his widow and a 3-year-old daughter.