The Daily Dispatch: December 9, 1862., [Electronic resource]

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Inquest.

--Coroner R. D. Sanxay held an inquest at 9½ o'clock, yesterday, over the body of John Roberts, a free negro, found lying dead in Baker's alley, on 17th street, between Main and Cary. A jury, Abraham Wolff acting as foreman, was sworn to inquire when and by what manner deceased came to his death. Every effort was made to get hold of the circumstances attending Roberts's death, but without effect. But one witness was found who knew anything of the affair.

George Lynch, being sworn, deposed: I saw uncle John run in the gate. I heard him halloa about 6 or 7 o'clock Sunday night. I then heard some one say, ‘"you d — d s--, of a b--, I'll cut your heart out."’ I did not know who it was. He talked like a big colored man. John Roberts then fell down dead.

The jury after hearing this witness, a small but intelligent colored boy, returned a verdict that deceased came to his death by a stab inflicted in his breast with a knife or some sharp instrument, by some person unknown. The body of Roberts lay in the alley all night.